Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2026
248. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport if he can confirm availability of funding through his Department for the A spine under the BusConnects redesign; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50736/26]
View answerAs 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 the BusConnects Dublin programme.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NTA for a direct and detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days
Pending a more detailed response, I note that the new BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign is intended to deliver a more efficient and higher-frequency bus network across the city. In this regard, the proposed A Spine, connecting Swords to Rathmines/Terenure via the City Centre, is designed to provide a high-frequency service, with buses operating at regular intervals throughout the day. All 12 Core Bus Corridor Schemes have received planning permission, though six are subject to legal challenges including the Swords and Templeogue/Rathfarnham scheme.
The NDP Sectoral Investment Plan, which was published by my Department in November last year, has allocated funding to progress BusConnects across the cities. The NTA will publish a more detailed plan later this year of what elements of the programme will be advanced within the funding available.
