Seán Kyne
Question:174. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport his plans to progress the light rail system for a Galway project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48791/26]
View answerRail Network
Questions (174, 175)
Seán Kyne
Question:175. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport to confirm that the emerging preferred route phase of a the light rail system for Galway City GLUAS will be funded by his Department / National Transport Authority as occurred with both the Dublin Luas and Luas Cork projects; if he will confirm that Galway City Council will not be expected to bear the cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48792/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 175 together.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is currently developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS), in conjunction with Galway City Council and Galway County Council. This strategy will replace the existing Galway Transport Strategy adopted in 2016 and will provide a long-term strategic planning framework for the delivery of transport and the integrated development of transport infrastructure and services in the Galway Metropolitan Area.
On Thursday 9th April 2026, the N6 Galway City Ring Road (GCRR) was granted permission by An Coimisiún Pleanála. Following this grant of permission the NTA recommenced the development of the of the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS).
As part of the development of GMATS, a Light Rail Feasibility Study was undertaken to examine the potential feasibility of light rail in Galway. The ‘Galway Light Rail Transit (LRT) Feasibility Study Report’ (Feasibility Report) was published by the NTA, for information, on 30 October 2024. The study noted that there could, under the right conditions, be a case for developing an LRT system in Galway. The Light Rail Feasibility Study is not intended to specifically identify a preferred alignment of a light rail corridor in the city. Instead, the final report explores key issues and potential feasibility. Route options will need to be explored in more detail during any subsequent process of options assessment and development. The information resulting from the Galway LRT Feasibility Report will be used to inform the development of the GMATS, alongside recommendations for active travel, bus services, rail, roads and demand management measures to ensure an Integrated Transport Strategy for Galway City & Environs.
It should be noted that any future light rail project in Galway will only be advanced subject to funding and securing relevant Government approval under the Infrastructure Guidelines.
It is currently anticipated that the draft GMATS will go to full public consultation in late 2026/early 2027, with a finalised Strategy in place in 2027.
Question No. 175 answered with Question No. 174.
Transport Policy
Questions (176, 179, 180, 181, 207)
Emer Currie
Question:176. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the implementation of a framework (details supplied), in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48862/26]
View answer
Gary Gannon
Question:179. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Transport the actions contained in the National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems published in August 2025 which have been implemented to date; the actions which remain outstanding; the target implementation date for each outstanding action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48993/26]
View answerGary Gannon
Question:180. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Transport whether the Government intends to introduce a statutory mechanism whereby residents, residents' associations and local authorities may make submissions on, object to, or seek operational restrictions in respect of routine commercial drone delivery operations over residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48994/26]
View answerGary Gannon
Question:181. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Transport the statutory rights residents currently possess to seek exclusion zones, geofenced areas or operational restrictions where routine commercial drone delivery operations give rise to concerns relating to residential amenity, noise, privacy or environmental impact; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48995/26]
View answer
Paul McAuliffe
Question:207. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered establishing a statutory mechanism whereby communities may seek exclusion from routine commercial drone delivery operations, where significant concerns arise regarding residential amenity, privacy, environmental impacts or community acceptance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49241/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 176, 179, 180, 181 and 207 together.
The rapid pace of drone innovation and commercialisation has created challenges and generated real concerns among communities. It has also required aviation regulators and local authorities to consider a new range of safety, security, environmental and privacy issues.
While there is a comprehensive regulatory framework in place from an aviation safety perspective to regulate drone operations, there are areas where the rapid pace of expansion of drone operations has resulted in gaps and uncertainty. The expansion of commercial drone delivery services is an area where clarity is required in relation to roles and responsibilities and cooperation and engagement with stakeholders and appropriate authorities.
The Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, agreed by Government, and published last year, aims to facilitate consideration of how matters such as planning and environmental issues will be addressed by the appropriate authorities. It provides for a number of structures and actions that aim to address concerns in relation to increasing drone usage and operations in balance with the realisation of the economic and societal benefits from the emerging drone sector.
The Policy Framework acknowledges the important role local authorities will play in the integration of drone technology into communities. This will include ensuring that appropriate authorities have the required regulatory powers and that they have mechanisms in place to ensure that the views of all stakeholders are taken into account.
The implementation of the Policy Framework relies on cross-government structures and the continuation of engagement and support from various departments, agencies, the drone sector and the public. Implementations is underway. The National UAS Policy Framework Monitoring Group was established earlier this year to support and monitor the overall progress of the implementation of the Policy Framework. Its membership comprises representatives of key stakeholders involved in leading and supporting implementation of Policy Framework actions.
The Monitoring Group held its first meeting in February. Implementation of the Policy Framework will be tracked and reported on through a series of annual action plans and progress reports. In the period following its meeting, the Monitoring Group agreed the Implementation Action Plan for 2026 which sets out tasks and timelines for 2026 associated with the implementation of actions set out in the Policy Framework. The Implementation Plan also provides a brief update on tasks undertaken in 2025 following the publication of the Policy Framework in August 2025. The Implementation Plan is available on the Government's website.
The Policy Framework contains actions to assist the planning community and local authorities to manage integration of drone technology into communities, and how to take local concerns on board. One such action is the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) supporting local authorities and planners to acquire the necessary aviation knowledge about drone technology, regulation and oversight. The IAA is providing this ongoing support where required. My department has been engaging with the LGMA representative on the Monitoring Group to further engage with representatives of local authorities in relation to the regulation of drones, the role of the IAA, and the actions of Policy Framework.
The IAA and officials from my department are holding an information session with the National Strategic Planning Unit in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to discuss how we might integrate and engage better on the implementation of the Policy Framework with regards to drones in our towns and cities. My department is continuing to engage with local authorities on these matters.
The Policy Framework also proposes the setting up of a national working group to develop transparent processes and procedures for the designation of UAS Geographical Zones (UGZ) for the purposes of minimising safety risks, protecting privacy, addressing security issues, and dealing with environmental concerns. The Working Group, chaired by the IAA is due to be established shortly.
Parking Provision
Questions (177)
Claire Kerrane
Question:177. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport the steps he will take to ensure compliance with parking in disabled parking bays for holders of the appropriate blue parking badge; to ensure those who have a badge and therefore, have a need for such parking facilities can access it; that there are consequences for those without the badges who use this parking and proper enforcement of rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48866/26]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to adivise that there are regulations in place to deter the misuse of disabled parking permits and disabled parking bays.
It is an offence to park in a disabled parking bay without a disabled parking permit or to use a parking permit other than for the convenience of the permit holder. Members of An Garda Siochana and traffic wardens may issue fixed charge notices for these offences. The fixed charge penalties for misuse of a parking card and parking in a disabled space without a parking card are €200 and €160 respectively.
Bus Services
Questions (178)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:178. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if extra services will be looked at during the summertime for a bus service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48909/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Question No. 179 answered with Question No. 176.
Question No. 180 answered with Question No. 176.
Question No. 181 answered with Question No. 176.
Rail Network
Questions (182, 183)
Louise O'Reilly
Question:182. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if the new battery operated trains on the northern commuter line will be fully accessible for power assisted wheel chairs and manually operated wheelchairs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49008/26]
View answerLouise O'Reilly
Question:183. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if the new battery operated trains for the northern commuter line have been tested by wheelchair users; if not, whether there will be an opportunity for wheelchair users to test the accessibility of the trains prior to their deployment into use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49009/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 183 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 and the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009, the Oireachtas assigned statutory responsibility to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for promoting the development of an integrated, accessible public transport network and public transport infrastructure. The NTA in turn works with the relevant public transport operators, for example Irish Rail, who have responsibility for day-to-day operational issues, to progressively make public transport accessible.
As queries relating to the accessibility of the new trains on the northern commuter line are a matter for Irish Rail in the first instance, I have referred your questions to the company for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Question No. 183 answered with Question No. 182.
Bus Services
Questions (184)
Seán Crowe
Question:184. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if the 27 bus route in Dublin has met the minimum operated kilometres and punctuality standard in 2025 and 2026; and if any fines were imposed for a failure to do so. [49029/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Dublin Bus. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Network
Questions (185)
Albert Dolan
Question:185. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Transport the purpose of the weight-in-motion camera system located on or near the M18; the functions it performs; the details of the type of data it collects; the way in which this data is used and shared, including with An Garda Síochána or other agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49032/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you in relation to the weight-in-motion camera system located on the M18.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Bus Éireann
Questions (186)
Darren O'Rourke
Question:186. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport the number of lost kilometres on the Bus Éireann 103 service Dublin to Ashbourne/Ratoath in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the way in which this compares to other comparable services; the measures he is taking to reduce lost kilometres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49038/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Road Safety
Questions (187)
Seamus Healy
Question:187. Deputy Seamus Healy asked the Minister for Transport to approve the application by Tipperary County Council for a safety improvement grant amounting to €50,000 for a scheme of traffic calming measures along with associated line markings and signage at a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49040/26]
View answerWritten answers
In accordance with Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, as amended, the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority. Work on such roads is funded from Councils' own resources, supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of work to be funded is a matter for local authorities.
According to my Department's records, an application has not been received from Tipperary County Council with reference to the Clonoulty National School.
My Department provides grant assistance to local authorities under the Regional and Local Roads Grant Programme for a number of targeted programmes, including Safety Improvement Works. Applications are sought each year from local authorities for consideration for funding in the subsequent year. While funding can be sought for traffic calming measures and other safety improvements, it is a matter for Tipperary County Council to submit such an application.
It should be noted that Exchequer funding for regional and local roads is intended to supplement realistic contributions from local authorities’ own resources. As the statutory road authorities for their areas, it is open to local authorities to prioritise investment in regional and local roads.
For 2026, Tipperary County Council received an initial allocation of €49,379,670, with €829,370 of this allocated for Safety Improvement Works.
In 2026, funding of €30,000 was allocated to the Clonoulty Village Footpath Link scheme through a Specific Improvement Grant. This scheme aims to connect the playground and the GAA grounds to the rest of the village.
Bus Services
Questions (188)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:188. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport the bus services that will serve the Fassaroe Bray park and ride facility in Wicklow when it opens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49070/26]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy may be aware, the Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, it is the NTA that have the statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, ensuring accessible and sustainable transit options.
The Fassaroe Park and Ride facility in County Wicklow serves as a strategic bus based commuting hub along the N11/M11 corridor, providing sustainable transport options for residents in Wicklow county traveling to Dublin and surrounding areas. The facility has approximately 388-400 parking spaces and two bus bays with passenger shelters, dedicated turning circle and a new junction for smooth bus operations.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities in the area, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Departmental Expenditure
Questions (189)
Eoin Hayes
Question:189. Deputy Eoin Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the total cost of engagement with a company (details supplied) in each of the years 2020 to 2025, across his Department, by project, year and value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49102/26]
View answerWritten answers
The below table contains a summary of contracted engagements with the company as supplied and for the dates requested:
|
Year |
Project |
Invoiced |
|
2021 |
Support of RPA (Robotic Processes Automation) |
€113,415.35 |
|
2022 |
Support of RPA (Robotic Processes Automation) |
€236,394.00 |
|
2022 |
IT Strategy & Governance Review |
€30,750.00 |
|
2023 |
Support of RPA (Robotic Processes Automation) |
€155,909.63 |
|
2024 |
Support of RPA (Robotic Processes Automation) |
€154,540.60 |
|
2025 |
Review of the Preliminary Business Case for BusConnects Cork project |
€42,000 |
|
2025 |
Support of RPA (Robotic Processes Automation) |
€100,868.57 |
The total invoiced value of the above engagements is €833,878.15 for the period 2020 - 2025.
Bus Services
Questions (190)
John Paul O'Shea
Question:190. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider providing an additional stop on the 243 bus service at Roskeen, Lombardstown to improve access for people living in the Banteer and Castlemagner area, where there is ample room for parking and connections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49111/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Greenways Provision
Questions (191)
John Paul O'Shea
Question:191. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport if dedicated funding will be made available to support the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of greenways in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49112/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to greenways. Approximately €60m has been allocated to Greenways in 2026. Funding is administered through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), who, in conjunction with local authorities, have responsibility for the planning, design, and construction of individual Greenways.
The allocated funding made available to Greenways in 2026 is reserved for capital expenditure only. This funding stream does include provision for protection and renewal works such as the purchase of maintenance machinery, pavement resurfacing and rehabilitation, drainage system upgrades, replacement of fencing, and restraint systems and replacement of road markings. Significant investment in terms of capital asset renewal works has taken place in recent years on older Greenway routes such as the Old Rail Trail and the Great Western Greenway.
The responsibilities for the ongoing maintenance, liability, and promotion of a Greenway rests with the sponsoring agency or local authority. TII and local authorities have previously raised the matter of current funding with Departmental officials in relation to the maintenance of greenways to complete activities such as landscape maintenance, pothole repair and path cleaning. This matter will continue to be considered by Department officials in the context of the Estimates Process.
Driver Test
Questions (192)
Aidan Farrelly
Question:192. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport his plans to establish a new driving test centre in the Leixlip and Celbridge areas. [49114/26]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service, including the provision of test centres. Neither I nor my officials are involved in the service at an operational level. Therefore, the information requested by the Deputy is held by the Authority.
Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the RSA for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
More generally, I am informed by the RSA that the process for opening a new driving test centre is informed primarily by sustained demand within a geographic area, operational requirements, accessibility for customers, driver tester capacity, and the availability of suitable accommodation and infrastructure. Currently the RSA is engaged with the OPW on a number of priority locations, to ensure continuity of service long term and to address wait times in high demand areas.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Questions (193, 195)
Aidan Farrelly
Question:193. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update in respect of bringing Spencer Dock train station back into use; the amount expended to date on the project; the annual cost of securing the site and building since 2020 to date; and the date on which it is expected to be operational [49118/26]
View answerAidan Farrelly
Question:195. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update in respect of greater use and expansion of the Docklands train station in the context of DART+ west and north. [49120/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 195 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area, including ongoing work on station facilities as part of the DART+ programme. In the case of the DART+ programme, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Pending the more detailed response, I note that the new station at Spencer Dock, introduced as part of DART+ West, is a key node for future service integration, supporting the operational flexibility required for DART+ South West, as several services will now terminate in the new station, helping to address capacity issues around Connolly Station. I can also state that infrastructural work associated with DART+ West is progressing as a priority. DART+ West is funded to commence construction next year under the NDP.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.