Written Answers Nos. 156-176
156. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport for an update on Dart+ South West; when the project will be delivered; and if there will be an increase in capacity in the existing lines in advance of the project progressing. [67322/26]
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. In the case of the DART+ programme, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
Pending a more detailed response, both the DART+ programme and DART+ South West project are priority investments for my Department. Collectively, the programme will triple the length of the electrified Dublin commuter rail network and double its capacity.
In terms of DART+ South West specifically, a major milestone was cleared in November 2024 when the project secured full planning approval. Procurement for both DART+ South West and West is now progressing, with pre-qualification questionnaire notices for design and build works advertised in May 2025, and all responses to these have been received and evaluated. The consultation process is now closed, and tender documentation is now in its final drafting stage.
Last year, the National Development Plan from 2026 to 2030 allocated funding to advance DART+ West into construction from next year. While DART+ West must proceed first in terms of the major infrastructure projects, as it includes a new depot to house an expanded DART fleet and necessary city centre capacity upgrades to support the wider programme, to expedite the subsequent delivery of DART+ South West, the procurement approach will see supplier frameworks established across DART+ West and South West for common project elements.
With regard to an increase in capacity on existing lines, I am pleased to note that safety testing is progressing and trains from the first order of 95 electric and battery-carriages will start rolling out on the Northern line next year, extending DART services to Drogheda. The second order of 90 carriages are planned to enter service in 2028, which will allow the extension of DART services to Wicklow around 2029. The entry into service of the new DART+ fleet, will allow for Intercity and Commuter trains to be redeployed to other busy sections of the rail network. The redeployment is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and the NTA.
With regard to the Deputy's specific questions, this is a matter for the NTA and I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the company for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
157. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport for a progress update on the N-M20 Cork to Limerick, N72-N73 Mallow Relief Road, Cork City Northern Transport Project, N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton, and M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy schemes; their phase under the Infrastructure Guidelines, the allocations and drawdowns in 2026, and planning submission dates to An Coimisiún Pleanála; the status of the N-M20 business case and its timeline for Government approval; and the 2026 funding allocated to Cork City and County Councils for the Cork Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Road. [67467/26]
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 these projects.
I can confirm that €3,500,000 has been allocated for the N/M20 Limerick to Cork scheme, €600,000 has been allocated for the N72/N73 Mallow Relief Road scheme, €500,000 has been allocated for the N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton scheme, €110,000,000 has been allocated for the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy scheme and €400,000 has been allocated for the Cork City Northern Transport Project in 2026. As with all national roads projects in the NDP, the delivery programme for the project will be kept under review for 2027 and considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII.
The Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Route, which is planned to link the N22 (Carrigrohane Road) to Glanmire, was established in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy. It is intended that the Northern Distributor Multi-Modal Route will include both car traffic and bus lanes, as well as cycling and pedestrian facilities.
In Q1 2026, Cork City Council launched the tender process, with a closing date of 13th March 2026. The eTenders page is available at: https://www.etenders.gov.ie/epps/cft/prepareViewCfTWS.do?resourceId=6962773
Cork City have confirmed that the tender process is now complete, and Atkins have been appointed as the consultants. Their 'kick-off meeting' with the CCC project team took place in July 2026. Phases 3 and 4 are still scheduled over the next 36-month period.
The NDR project received an initial NTA allocation of €1.5 million in 2026. As of August 2026, it is expected that between €500,000 and €750,000 of this funding will be drawn down by year-end.
Based on correspondence between the NTA, the Department of Transport, and Cork City Council in 2025, funding for the pre-construction phases of the project (Phases 1 – 5) has been profiled and broadly agreed through to 2030, with the NTA acting as the Approving Authority for these stages. The estimated expenditure for Phases 1 – 5 is approximately €26.5 million.
The funding profile and source for the subsequent construction and implementation phase, currently estimated at approximately €275 million, has yet to be confirmed. Accordingly, funding for the construction of the NDR remains subject to future NDP and Government funding decisions
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.
158. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Transport the timelines on the N4 project to extend the N4 beyond Mullingar to connect to the Rooskey bypass; and the progress to date. [66934/26]
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 €6,000,000 has been allocated for the N4 Mullingar to Longford 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.
159. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding any initiative his Department is progressing to improve passenger safety on public transport. [66653/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I can assure you that my Department is actively progressing the necessary steps to deliver on the commitment to establish a Transport Security Force, in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. Considerable progress has been made in recent months, and this work remains a top priority for all parties involved.
This work centres on developing a well-considered and informed approach to identifying the most suitable model for the Transport Security Force. In this regard, a proposed model is currently under detailed consideration, with all key stakeholders fully engaged, including the NTA, operators, trade unions, passenger groups, An Garda Síochána, and the Department of Justice.
In addition, my Department and the NTA are actively advancing the legislative proposals required to deliver on the Government’s commitment to establish a Transport Security Force. The introduction of this Force will require the development of primary legislation, which can have a significant lead time, but it will be expedited, with a view to making progress on its foundations during 2026.
In the meantime, we are committed to delivering a safe and secure public transport system, and we will maintain momentum on all fronts until the Transport Security Force is in place.
160. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Transport the roads and public transport funding he plans to make available to services in County Waterford. [67607/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I hold overall policy responsibility for transport projects across the sector, however the actual delivery of those projects is generally managed by the relevant agency directly. Additionally, capital projects can vary in scale, consisting of multiple small deliverables across several regions.
Capital and current investment in the transport sector is therefore generally reported on at programme level and nationally rather than by specific region.
As a result, to best provide the information requested by the Deputy I refer the Deputy to the both the National Development Plan Transport Sectoral Investment Plan and to the Government's coordinated Project 2040 tracker for major regional projects for the Deputy's information on programme-based investment.
Some of the noted programmes and projects identified for the Waterford Region include the redevelopment of Plunket Station and the development of an intermodal Transport hub, as well as upgrades to the N24 and N25 routes, the rollout of BusConnects Waterford and Active Travel projects like the South East Greenway.
The Transport and connectivity situation in Waterford is being prepared for fundamental change out to 2030.
Our Government’s guiding principle is delivery and our ambition is high. Waterford will benefit both directly and indirectly from the investment we have earmarked for the south east and will anchor much of the economic development which follows this investment, while also supporting other sectors like education, health and tourism.
By the end of this NDP period, the county will have improved rail access, better roads, an updated and modernised bus network and fleet, more options for active travel like walking and cycling and, tying it all together, improved interconnected travel options through a new travel hub which we will protect and make as usable and accessible as possible.
And while we build out these new improvements, we will protect and enhance the existing networks and rollout services for the region as a whole by improving local road safety and giving full support to the Connecting Ireland programme and the LocalLink services which are already in place.
The end result will be better movement of people and goods, more efficient commerce and a cleaner environment which will only add to the regions already stellar reputation as a competitive and liveable European city.
The Project 2040 tracker is publicly available via gov.ie/2040 and provides both a searchable map and annual reports on progress across the NDP and Project 2040 programmes.
161. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the Luas green line extension to Tyrrelstown. [67562/26]
View answer194. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will consider revising the timeline for the Luas green line extension to Tyrrelstown, in view of the proposed Dunsink urban area plan. [67572/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 161 and 194 together.
As 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 in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), including light rail.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Transport Strategy for the GDA 2022-2042 was published by the NTA in January 2023. The strategy sets out a statutory framework for transport investment across the region over a twenty-year period and provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for the GDA.
There are four light rail proposals identified for development and delivery within the 2022-2042 lifetime of the strategy. These are proposed expansions of the Luas network to Finglas, Lucan, Poolbeg and Bray. Other possible projects, identified in the Transport Strategy for the GDA 2022-2042, for delivery in the period after 2042 include a Green Line extension to Tyrrelstown.
As part of the periodic review of the Transport Strategy, the next review of Transport Strategy is scheduled to commence next year.
Noting NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office, if you do not receive reply within 10 days.
162. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport for the latest update and timeline of construction for the Finglas village renewal scheme, given there are reported delays to the project which is being jointly overseen by Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority. [67515/26]
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.
163. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport whether consideration is given to school and education-related travel demand when planning and expanding Local Link services in rural areas. [67621/26]
View answerAs Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities 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.
164. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on plans to introduce registration requirements for e-scooters; to outline the work being undertaken in developing such a system; and the anticipated timeline for its introduction. [67414/26]
View answerGovernment approved a series of road safety measures for e-scooters in July 2026.
On Tuesday, September 22nd, I signed the Road Traffic (Electric Scooters) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations into law, which will increase the minimum age for use of e-scooters from 16 to 18. This change will commence on 2 October.
This follows on from recent changes making helmets and high-visibility clothing mandatory for e-scooter users since 4 September.
Regulations to double the fees for detention and storage of seized e-scooters have also been signed. This means that fees will rise to €80 for detention and the first day of storage and €30 for each additional day or storage. This will also take effect from 2 October.
Regulations to increase Fixed Charge Notices for e-scooter offences to €100 will be brought forward in the coming weeks. A Fixed Charge Notice offence for not wearing a helmet or high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter will be introduced at same time at the new rate of €100.
These measures combine to give a very strong message about the appropriate and safe use of e-scooters and are key road safety measures in light of the increasing number of serious injuries and fatalities associated with e-scooter usage.
Proposals and details in relation to e-scooter registration, insurance, taxation, and licensing are being worked on and will be brought to Cabinet in due course.
165. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider extending the proposed DART+ network northwards beyond Drogheda to include Dunleer, County Louth; if his Department has undertaken or plans to undertake any assessment of the feasibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66675/26]
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. It also has the day-to-day Approving Authority role for the overall DART+ programme, even where it extends beyond the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of DART+, the NTA fulfils its statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
With regard to the Deputy's specific questions regarding the potential extension of the DART+ network to Dunleer, this is a matter for the NTA and I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the company for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
166. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport when a decision will be made on the funding for Dart+ SW. [66601/26]
View answerBoth the overall DART+ programme and the DART+ South West project are priority investments for my Department. Collectively, the programme will triple the length of the electrified Dublin commuter rail network and double its capacity.
In terms of DART+ South West specifically, a major milestone was cleared in November 2024 when the project secured full planning approval. Procurement for both DART+ South West and West is now progressing, with pre-qualification questionnaire notices for design and build works advertised in May 2025.
Last year, the National Development Plan from 2026 to 2030 allocated funding to advance DART+ West into construction from late next year. DART+ West must proceed first in terms of the infrastructure projects, as it includes a new depot to house an expanded DART fleet and necessary city centre capacity upgrades to support the overall programme. To expedite the subsequent delivery of DART+ South West, the procurement approach will see supplier frameworks established across DART+ West and South West for common project elements.
NDP funding has also been allocated to DART+ South West to progress with planning, design, and procurement between 2026-2030. Compulsory Purchase Orders for DART+ South West also commenced in February. I will continue to engage with the Minister for Public Expenditure and my Government colleagues to further accelerate delivery of DART+ South West in the years ahead.
167. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the status of the three BusConnects Cork sustainable transport corridor schemes approved by Government, including the date on which the planning application for each scheme was or is due to be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála; the date on which the redesigned Cork bus network will commence operation; the additional fleet and driver numbers required to deliver the planned increase in service levels and the number recruited to date; and the current estimated capital cost of the programme. [67466/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects Cork
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more 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 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 up to 2030.
As the Deputy may be aware, I secured Cabinet approval for BusConnects Cork at Approval Gate 1 of the Infrastructure Guidelines in October 2025. The programme will provide for a total of 11 Sustainable Transport Corridors, delivering approximately 90km of bus lane and bus priority measures to improve bus system efficiency, as well as 95km of cycle lanes. The NTA is currently preparing the required documentation and expect to submit planning applications to An Coimisiún Pleanála later this year.
Following public consultation, the new BusConnects Cork network was published in June 2022, and it aims to provide an increase of over 50% in bus services across the city. Planning for the implementation of the new bus network has commenced and it is expected that the new network will be implemented on a phased basis in the coming years, subject to funding.
168. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the delivery of MetroLink. [67227/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, MetroLink is Ireland's largest public transport infrastructure project and a key National Development Plan priority, delivering long-term benefits for economic growth, housing competitiveness and climate action. MetroLink will provide a high-capacity, fully automated metro connection Dublin airport with key destinations across the city, including a reliable 25-minute journey to the city centre.
Government consented to "Approval Gate 2" for the MetroLink Detailed Business Case on 16th September, marking a significant milestone for this project. With Government's approval, MetroLink will now be able to proceed to the procurement phase, with the main tender packs expected to issue to market in the first half of 2027.
Construction activity for MetroLink will be visible next year, with initial enabling works, including utility diversions, expected to start.
There is further information on delivery available in the Detailed Business Case at the following link: www.nationaltransport.ie/publications/metrolink-detailed-business-case/
169. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Transport the reason, almost two years - October 2024 - after the introduction of the hourly Enterprise train service and one year - October 2025 - after the reduction in car parking capacity at Clarke Station, Dundalk has there been no progress in the provision of additional car parking spaces at Dundalk station; and the plans to increase car parking at the station. [67424/26]
View answerAs Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network and stations on the network, including any additional parking at Dundalk train station, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
Given Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
170. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport the need to provide funding to local authorities for traffic cams and pedestrian crossings in rural towns and villages, including those on national roads; and whether he acknowledges that high speeds become a problem for safety of pedestrians and vulnerable road users. [67539/26]
View answerGovernment is committed to reducing road deaths and creating safer roads for everyone in Ireland. Our Road Safety Strategy 2021 to 2030 has the primary aim of reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries by half by 2030 and to achieve zero deaths or serious injuries by 2050.
Our strategy identified speed as one of seven priority intervention areas, with the aim of its reduction to safe, appropriate levels for the roads being used and the roads users using them.
In this regard the speed limit review of 2023 set out three principal recommendations concerning speed limit reductions:
• A reduction in the default speed limit on rural local roads from 80km/h to 60km/h,
• The introduction of a 30km/h default speed limit in built-up and urban areas, and
• A reduction in the default speed limit on national secondary roads from 100km/h to 80km/h.
These recommendations are being implemented on a phased basis by our local authorities, supported by my Department.
The first recommendation, concerning rural local roads, was implemented in February 2025.
The second recommendation, concerning built-up and urban areas, is being implemented by local authorities by way of ‘special speed limit bye-laws’, rather than a change in the ‘default speed limit’. As directed by the Minister for Transport, local authorities are to complete the bye-law process for this phase by 30 October this year and implement all permanent speed limit changes by 31 March 2027.
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. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with the remainder invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Under the Regional and Local Roads Grant Programme, my Department provides supplemental funding to local authorities for several targeted programmes, including Safety Improvement Works. Applications are sought each year from eligible local authorities under this programme for consideration for funding in the subsequent year. Funding can be sought for traffic calming measures and other safety improvement works. The individual schemes for inclusion in such applications are decided by the local authority concerned.
This year, €14 million was allocated for Safety Improvement Works, supporting over 300 schemes across the country. This was an increase of approximately 7.7% on the 2025 allocation. A further €12.4 million, through Specific Improvement Grants, was allocated to road improvement schemes related to road safety.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The operation and management of national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply with information on TII’s Road Safety Improvement Scheme Programme. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
171. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department is taking to introduce effective safety measures at rail level crossings in an effort to protect individuals from further tragic accidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67554/26]
View answerAs Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network and stations on the network, including safety measures at level crossings, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.
To support Iarnród Éireann in this important work, a multi-annual funding framework for the maintenance, protection and renewal of our railway infrastructure is in place, as required under both EU and Irish legislation. This agreement, the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC), is made by the Minister for Transport and Iarnród Éireann. The most recent IMMAC was agreed in December 2025 and will provide over €2 billion in investment in the protection and renewal of our rail network over the lifetime of the current contract from 2026 to 2030.
Given Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
173. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport his views on the proposed increase in public transport fares; if this will be reconsidered in the budget; and when the fares will come into effect. [67321/26]
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 responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
In this regard on 3 September 2026, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced changes to the national fare structure for PSO services, effective from January 2027. These changes are the first major revision since 2018 forming part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy and support the continued expansion and improvement of public transport, while maintaining affordability. They also represent an important step towards standardising fares nationwide, in line with the National Fare Strategy published in 2023.
While adult fares will increase, many child fares will be reduced and young adult fares will remain discounted at 50%, helping to improve affordability for families and young people. The Free Travel Scheme, which is run separately by the Department for Social Protection, will continue for everyone eligible.
Public transport requires ongoing investment to maintain, improve and expand services. Fare revenue helps fund these measures, making it important to balance affordability with inflationary increases. The proposed fare changes support the Government's commitment to continued network growth, service enhancements and climate objectives by funding future improvements, while keeping public transport competitive and affordable.
In line with this growth the NTA has identified approximately 140 new service initiatives and capacity enhancements as part of its 2027 budget submission to the Department of Transport, taking account of competing funding demands and wider public transport priorities. Subject to the outcome of the annual estimates process, this represents the biggest in year and year-on-year enhancement of services in many years.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's request to the NTA for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
174. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he will intervene to reverse planned fare hikes to public transport in the new year, that will have a negative impact on commuters. [66894/26]
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 responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
In this regard on 3 September 2026, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced changes to the national fare structure for PSO services, effective from January 2027. These changes are the first major revision since 2018 forming part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy and support the continued expansion and improvement of public transport, while maintaining affordability. They also represent an important step towards standardising fares nationwide, in line with the National Fare Strategy published in 2023.
While adult fares will increase, many child fares will be reduced and young adult fares will remain discounted at 50%, helping to improve affordability for families and young people. The Free Travel Scheme, which is run separately by the Department for Social Protection, will continue for everyone eligible.
Public transport requires ongoing investment to maintain, improve and expand services. Fare revenue helps fund these measures, making it important to balance affordability with inflationary increases. The proposed fare changes support the Government's commitment to continued network growth, service enhancements and climate objectives by funding future improvements, while keeping public transport competitive and affordable.
In line with this growth the NTA has identified approximately 140 new service initiatives and capacity enhancements as part of its 2027 budget submission to the Department of Transport, taking account of competing funding demands and wider public transport priorities. Subject to the outcome of the annual estimates process, this represents the biggest in year and year-on-year enhancement of services in many years.
Safeguarding the long-term financial sustainability while being responsive to passenger needs remains a central commitment under the Programme for Government. Achieving this requires a careful balance between delivering high-quality reliable services and ensuring the network is adequately resourced to meet growing demand.
175. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Transport if his Department can provide an update on the implementation of contactless payment on our public transport services. [67630/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has 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 working days.
Pending this detailed response, the Programme for Government commits to rolling out contactless fare payments on all public transport and to keeping fares low and affordable. 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. The new solution will replace the Leap Card system, which has served over 9 million users since its 2011 launch but is now nearing end-of-life.
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 new ticketing systems will be delivered through a phased rollout plan, beginning with the development of the system and integration with existing Leap Cards by summer 2027. This will be followed by the simultaneous introduction of new ticketing equipment across bus, Luas and Irish Rail services in the Greater Dublin Area by summer 2028, enabling contactless payment and supporting the 90-minute multi-modal fare. The final phase will extend new ticketing infrastructure to commuter bus and regional public transport services outside the Greater Dublin Area.
Separately, the NTA is actively rolling out contactless payments across TFI Local Link services, allowing passengers to pay for single journeys via debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. The system is being deployed across all 15 TFI Local Link offices, with full completion expected by the end of 2026. Already this year, contactless payment fares have been rolled out in 24 additional counties right across the country.
176. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Transport if it would be possible for bus route 891 to include Hugginstown along its route. [67471/26]
View answerAs Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities 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.
