Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
321. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the delivery of next generation ticketing for public transport; if any delays have occurred in this project; the total amount budgeted for this project; the amount that has been paid out on this project to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45693/26]
View answer322. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport the oversight mechanisms put in place to scrutinise the delivery of next generation ticketing for public transport projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45694/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 321 and 322 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including ticketing and technology projects.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten days.
Pending this detailed response, I note that the NTA's Next Generation Ticketing project will provide for an upgraded ticketing system to facilitate a variety of payment methods on public transport services, including bus services. Fundamental to this project is a transition to an 'Account Based Ticketing' scheme incorporating mobile and card-based payments.
Following a competitive procurement process, in April 2024 the NTA awarded an overall framework contract for the design, supply, installation and operation of a new multi-modal ticketing system. The successful tenderer has designed, installed and operated similar systems internationally.
The NTA board, which is appointed by the Minister, is updated on the status of the project at regular intervals. The NTA also reports to the Department on its major public transport projects and programmes, including Next-Generation Ticketing, on a monthly basis.
The Department, along with competitively appointed independent experts in transport, assess these reports and provide independent oversight, challenge, and advice to ensure that major transport projects are properly governed, delivered effectively, aligned with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines, and providing value for money to the State.
