Written Answers Nos. 115-134
115. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether he is satisfied that the voluntary dwelling purchase scheme achieves its objective of enabling affected homeowners to relocate without financial disadvantage (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52642/26]
View answerI would like to begin by clarifying that as the Minister for Transport, I have no role in determining the valuation criteria for the Voluntary Dwelling Purchase Scheme (VDPS).
daa have advised that the VDPS provides eligible homeowners with the option to sell their property directly to daa at a 30% premium above current market value, assessed as though the North Runway was not in operation. This process allows for an independent valuation by a panel of expert assessors, facilitated by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI).
In summary, daa commissions a market valuation of the property in line with the Scheme requirement that the valuation be conducted without reference to North Runway. Additionally, homeowners are also entitled to obtain their own independent valuation, the reasonable cost of which is reimbursed by daa. Where the two valuations differ by more than 5%, an additional independent valuer is appointed by the SCSI to provide a further professional assessment. Accordingly, up to three valuations may be carried out in respect of any property in accordance with the process. Once a fair valuation price is agreed through the process, daa pays an additional premium of 30% on the agreed price.
That said, more broadly in relation to the issue of aircraft noise, I have consistently emphasised the importance of daa acting as a good neighbour to those impacted by airport operations and the need for meaningful engagement with local communities on these issues.
In this regard, I wrote to daa in October last year and again in March of this year, reiterating the importance of sustained engagement with local communities most directly impacted by aircraft noise. In those letters, I also requested updates on what measures daa are considering in relation to strengthening its noise mitigation programme.
daa has subsequently advised that under the relevant planning conditions, eligibility for all three noise mitigation schemes, including the VDPS, are subject to review every two years, with the next review due to commence in the coming months. This review will be based on 2025 operational and noise data, ensuring that the assessment accurately reflects the actual noise environment experienced by local communities. This is an important mechanism to ensure that supports remain aligned with real world impacts.
It is also worth noting that the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) published its draft regulatory decision on daa’s Infrastructure Application on 28 May 2026. ANCA is currently undertaking a 14-week public consultation process in relation to that draft decision and on the measures proposed to address any noise impacts arising on foot of granting permission for that planning application. I encourage all those with an interest in the outcome of this assessment to participate fully in the process.
Finally, at the recent second stage debate on the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026 in Dáil Éireann on the 23rd of June, and at subsequent debates on the Bill, I have gone on record as committing to ensuring that an independent assessment of flightpaths at Dublin Airport will be undertaken at the appropriate time.
The most suitable point for this work will most likely be when a final decision is made regarding the North Runway Relevant Action. This timing will ensure that the assessment is based on the most accurate and current operational data, incorporating the latest noise modelling methodologies, and can support the identification of appropriate solutions.
116. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the amount the NTA collected via advertisement on the sides of bus shelters within the Dublin region in 2025 and to date in 2026 in tabular form; and the rates charged for this type of advertisement. [52712/26]
View answerAs 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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally in conjunction with the relevant transport operators. As part of this function, the management of advertising on bus shelters comes under the remit of the National Transport Authority (NTA).
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
118. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Transport if he will instruct public transport operators to allow dogs on all scheduled bus, rail and light rail services; the steps his Department is taking to standardise pet travel policies across all public transport operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52774/26]
View answerAs 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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally in conjunction with the relevant transport operators and for promoting the development of integrated, accessible public transport networks and infrastructure.
As the Deputy will be aware, the NTA launched a 4-week public consultation, closing 20th March 2026, on a proposed consolidated policy for the carriage of pets across the PSO network, including bus, rail and Luas services. The NTA is reviewing the feedback before finalising the policy.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
119. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport to examine the issue of traffic congestion at a roundabout (details supplied); to examine the availability of funding to progress plans to install a signalised traffic light junction at the roundabout; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52776/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
120. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport if he has seen reports confirming that a bus route (details supplied) is the most cancelled bus service in Dublin; the measures he will take to address this longstanding issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52777/26]
View answerAs 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.
121. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport to examine reports of overcrowding, ghost buses, extreme delays affecting bus services (details supplied) in north Dublin; the action his Department is taking to address these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52778/26]
View answerAs 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.
122. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Transport the number of diverted flights into Shannon Airport, Cork Airport and Dublin Airport in 2023, 2024 and 2025, in tabular form; the number of medical and technical diversions; the manner in which they are categorised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52808/26]
View answerAircraft may by diverted from their intended destination airports for a number of reasons, including due to medical, weather and technical reasons.
The data sought by the Deputy is not collated by my Department or by AirNav Ireland, which provides air navigation services in Irish-controlled airspace. I am advised that the data cannot be readily extracted from AirNav Ireland's systems, and that manual compilation of the information sought would require an unduly onerous amount of staff resources and time given the lack of any clear objective in compiling this information.
123. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport the additional measures his Department is considering to reduce serious injuries among children and teenagers arising from the use of e-scooters; whether any review is underway of the regulation of their importation, sale and use, with particular regard to products intended for or readily accessible to minors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52841/26]
View answer126. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport the steps his Department is currently taking with respect to the regulation of e-scooters, particularly in light of recent deaths and serious injuries caused by their dangerous use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52883/26]
View answer148. Deputy Daniel Ennis asked the Minister for Transport his plans to tackle a growing number of injuries received by children using e-scooters, given the news that six children have been placed on life support in the past two weeks in Children’s Health Ireland Temple Street hospital due to injuries they have sustained on e-scooters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53082/26]
View answer178. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport his Department's current assessment of the operation of the e-scooter regulations introduced in May 2024; the number of fixed charge notices issued since commencement, by offence type; whether his Department intends to review the 20km/h speed limit, the minimum age requirement, the prohibition on footpath use and passenger carriage, and the technical standards for compliant e-scooters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53678/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 123, 126, 148 and 178 together.
It is over two years since the first regulations and it is appropriate to look at the evidence and consider if additional regulation is warranted to promote road safety. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien and I met Tánaiste Simon Harris and Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan on Tuesday 16 June to discuss potential measures, including requiring owners to register, insure and tax the vehicles. Requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) on e-scooters and e-bikes will form part of any consideration.
Any proposals for updated regulations will be subject to Ministerial decision.
Enforcement of the legislation is, as for all road traffic law, under the remit of An Garda Síochána, who have the power to issue fixed charge notices and seize e-scooters operated by any person under the age of 16. Discussion are ongoing to restrict the availability of e-scooters to people under the age of 16 by including a provision in the upcoming Road Traffic Bill (similar to S.30 Road Traffic Act 2004).
124. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport if there is a specific policy within his Department that seeks to preclude those elected to local authorities from any boards that he may appoint; the rationale behind any such policy; the way in which it aligns with encouraging participation in local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52864/26]
View answer125. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport to commit to preparing legislation to not automatically exclude members of local authorities from consideration for appointment to State boards; and to set out the reasons such persons would be excluded. [52882/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 124 and 125 together.
Appointments to State Boards under the aegis of my Department are made in accordance with the relevant legislation relating to each State Body and in accordance with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation (“DPER”) 2014 guidelines on appointments to State Boards.
The Guidelines, which apply to both commercial and non-commercial State Bodies, state that broad and open access to potential participation on State Boards is essential to the broadening of State Board membership, helping to ensure that the public sector benefits from the talent, abilities and commitment of as wide a pool of suitable candidates as possible, to be assessed through an independent process operated by publicjobs as eligible for membership of State Boards.
There are 12 commercial bodies and 4 non-commercial bodies under the aegis of my Department who have boards filled through the publicjobs process.
The establishing legislation relating to each State Body specifies the composition of the board and (if applicable) those disqualified from becoming a member of the Board. Neither the DPER Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies nor the DPER Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards stipulate any specific exclusions from state board membership.
In relation to the Road Safety Authority, Section 22(1)(d) of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 provides that where a member of the Board becomes a member of a local authority, he or she shall cease to be a member of the Board. Section 22(4) of the Act provides that a person who is a member of a local authority shall be disqualified from becoming a member of the Board. However, the Deputy may wish to note that section 22(5) goes on to provide that “The Authority shall not employ or otherwise retain in any capacity a person who would otherwise be disqualified under this section from becoming a member of the Board, or a member of the staff, of the Authority, save with the approval of the Minister”.
There is no specific policy or governing legislation precluding local elected representatives from applying for positions on the remainder of the Boards of State Bodies under the aegis of my Department.
State Boards manages an open, accessible process to support Ministers in making appointments to State Boards and it is open to all members of the public to apply for positions advertised on the publicjobs.ie website, considering the skills, experience, and competencies required for specific board vacancies.
In making appointments, my primary objective is to ensure that boards collectively possess the appropriate balance of skills, experience, expertise and diversity necessary to effectively discharge their statutory functions and support good governance.
There are no plans to prepare draft legislation in this area or to amend the establishing legislation relating to each State Body.
127. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the up-to-date position of advancing improvement project works at Macroom bus station/depot, Macroom, County Cork; to provide full details and plans for the works and timeline for commencement of the works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52916/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision and upgrade of public transport, such as bus stations and depots.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Pending this detailed response, I note the commitments in the Programme for Government to ensure that public transport operators provide safe and accessible access for all passengers, and to work with local authorities and national bodies to improve public transport options and infrastructure.
128. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a schedule, by local authority in respect of the amount of funding he allocated for local, national road improvement and or maintenance in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026. [52917/26]
View answerAs 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, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals.
National roads allocations for years 2020 to 2026 are available at: www.tii.ie/en/tii-library/reports-accounts/
For 2024 and 2025, details of the allocations made to eligible local authorities, under the Regional and Local Roads Grant Programme, for road maintenance and improvement are outlined in the regional and local roads allocations and payments booklets, which are available through the Oireachtas Digital Library.
Full details of the 2026 grant allocations are available at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-transport/press-releases/ministers-for-transport-announce-over-15-billion-for-national-regional-and-local-roads/
129. Deputy Ann Graves asked the Minister for Transport the engagement his Department has had with the National Transport Authority regarding the reliability and capacity of rail services serving Donabate; if any short-term measures have been pursued to improve service reliability and increase capacity; and if there is a detailed timeline available for the completion of the DART+ works and delivery of the service to Donabate. [52959/26]
View answerAs 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 Iarnród 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.
130. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is putting in place to ensure that Irish Rail deliver an adequate service to rail users in Counties Wicklow and Wexford given the breakdown and cancellation of yet another rail service on the Rosslare rail line on 6 July 2026, and the pattern of poor service and overcrowded trains. [52961/26]
View answerAs 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 Iarnród 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.
131. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Transport to respond to matters raised in correspondence (details supplied); if his Department have been made aware of these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52977/26]
View answer156. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Transport the existing plans in relation to noise barriers for a road project in Cork (details supplied); the consultation process in relation to these plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53217/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 131 and 156 together.
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 planning, design and construction 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.
I can confirm that €110,000,000 has been allocated for the Cork to Ringaskiddy scheme in 2026.
Noting the above position, I have referred your questions to TII for a direct reply regarding these matters. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
132. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if he has assessed concerns raised by importers and freight operators regarding delays in cargo handling and collection times at Dublin Airport; whether any review has been undertaken of cargo operations and infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52979/26]
View answerThe Department of Transport has engaged extensively with daa, cargo handlers, and freight forwarders through meetings, site visits, and stakeholder engagement to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges affecting cargo operations and to identify potential solutions.
Following a stakeholder meeting convened by Department of Transport in February 2025, a number of recommendations were circulated based on feedback from industry participants. These focused on improving coordination, communication, and operational efficiency across the sector.
Air cargo is recognised as a strategic priority in the Programme for Government and remains a standing agenda item on the National Air Transport Facilitation Committee, chaired by the DoT, ensuring ongoing visibility and discussion of cargo-related issues within the wider airport facilitation framework.
In addition, The Department of Transport continues to engage with daa on longer-term cargo infrastructure requirements and has encouraged greater collaboration between the airport and cargo stakeholders to address current operational pressures.
133. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport whether further consultation will be carried out for a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52987/26]
View answerAs 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 planning, design and construction 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 on the status of this project.
I can confirm that €500,000 has been allocated for the N3 Clonee to M50 Bus Priority scheme in 2026.
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.
134. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Transport the consultation had with the insurance industry before introducing the recent legislative changes to the local area hackney licence scheme; if a regulatory impact assessment was carried out to determine whether operators would be able to obtain suitable insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53023/26]
View answerThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including local area hackney issues, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016. I have no role in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV sector.
Given the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you have not received a reply within 10 working days.
