Michael Collins
Ceist:194. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Transport when a repeat driving test will be arranged for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2741/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDriver Test
Ceisteanna (194)
Freagraí scríofa
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service, this includes all application and scheduling matters. Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct, detailed reply in relation to this case. Please contact my private office if a response is not received within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Air Navigation Orders
Ceisteanna (195)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:195. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the number of flights through sovereign Irish airspace which have occurred in breach of Irish legislation since October 2023; the dates of such breaches; if the matter has been referred to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2750/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My officials have been undertaking a detailed examination of the allegations made concerning contraventions of Irish legislation relating to the carriage of munitions of war in Irish sovereign airspace. This work is continuing and consideration will be given to appropriate next steps.
Ministerial Responsibilities
Ceisteanna (196)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:196. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if he will publish the ministerial brief he received following the recent formation of the Government. [2771/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise the Deputy that it is my intention to publish the Ministerial brief provided to me as Minister for Transport, and the Ministers of State, shortly.
This brief will be redacted in line with the Freedom of Information Act 2014 and will be made available on my Department's website: www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-transport/
Question No. 197 answered with Question No. 175.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (198)
Jerry Buttimer
Ceist:198. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport the amount of specific improvement grant funding provided and drawn down by Kerry County Council from 2019 to 2024, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2846/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Any new road projects that seek funding are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code) and the Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.
As regards the Specific Improvement Grant funding allocated to and drawn down by Kerry County Council for each of the years 2019 to 2024, details of the regional and local road allocations and payments to local authorities are outlined in the regional and local road allocations and payments booklets which are available on the Oireachtas Library.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (199)
Jerry Buttimer
Ceist:199. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport his views on the plan to increase buses on Cork city routes including the 220 and 223. [2847/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this instance Bus Éireann.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the NTA and Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to them both for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (200)
Jerry Buttimer
Ceist:200. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport his views on the upgrade of Mathew Hill in Togher, Cork. [2848/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (201)
Jerry Buttimer
Ceist:201. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport his views on the upgrade of Clarkes Hill and Coach Hill in Rochestown, Cork. [2849/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (202)
Jerry Buttimer
Ceist:202. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Transport his views on the status of the future plan to upgrade Ballinrea Cross in Carrigaline, County Cork. [2850/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Any new road projects that seek funding are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code) and the Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.
Noting the above, it is my understanding that Cork County Council has submitted a Specific Grant funding application for a proposed upgrade to the Ballinrea Cross in Carrigaline. This application, alongside all other applications received from local authorities for Specific Grant allocations, are currently being assessed taking into account competing projects and the available budget. Specific Grant allocations for 2025 will be notified to local authorities as part of the general grant allocation process which will be issued in the coming weeks.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (203)
Paul Donnelly
Ceist:203. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the extra costs that would be required to extend security personnel on the Dublin Bus fleet until the end of 2025. [2884/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 issue raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Dublin Bus. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct response to the Deputy.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Coast Guard Service
Ceisteanna (204)
Paul Donnelly
Ceist:204. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the level of capital investment undertaken at each Coast Guard station nationwide in 2023 and 2024, in tabular form. [2885/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Irish Coast Guard
As an island nation Ireland has an international obligation to provide a search and rescue (SAR) response in support of those in difficulty around our coast and in coastal waters. The Department of Transport through the Irish Coast Guard is responsible for provision and management of the service. Coast Guard Units are tasked to respond to incidents through the Marine Rescue Coordination centres (MRCCs) in Dublin, Malin, and Valentia. The volunteer units deliver several SAR functions through their highly skilled Boat teams, Cliff rescue teams, Search teams and Drone teams. Each unit comprises between fifteen and thirty volunteers. Strategically located Coast Guard stations provide a base for the volunteers who deliver the coastal SAR response.
The Irish Coast Guard building programme is managed through the Office of Public Works (OPW) from planning design to construction and on-going maintenance, with legal assistance as necessary from the Chief State Solicitor’s Office. The programme is funded from the Department of Transport vote.
The table below refers to level of capital investment including building upgrades or extensions, site acquisition and new buildings, (excluding maintenance work) undertaken at Coast Guard stations across the country between 2023 – 2024.
Level of capital investment in works undertaken at each Coast Guard Station in 2023-2024
|
Name of Station |
Period of work |
New Build |
Upgrade |
|
Fethard on Sea |
2019-2023 |
€81K |
|
|
Youghal |
2023-2024 |
€83K |
|
|
Bonmahon |
2024 |
€5.04M |
|
|
Westport |
2024-date |
€1.2M |
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (205)
Paul Donnelly
Ceist:205. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if all new DART carriages coming into the fleet over the next few years will have overhead luggage space to be able to hold small suitcases and so on. [2886/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ Programme and the purchase of rolling stock.
Approval by Government in December 2021 permitted the purchase of 95 DART carriages from Alstom, to start entering into service from early 2026. In November 2022, the Government approved a second purchase of fleet under the framework agreement with Alstom, which will see an additional 90 new battery-electric carriages enter service from around 2026.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this 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 days.
Ports Policy
Ceisteanna (206)
Pa Daly
Ceist:206. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the preparedness of Ireland's ports for the development of offshore wind; the way he plans to increase the number of ports that are ready for offshore wind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2926/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department and I are committed to facilitating commercial state ports under the Department’s remit as positive contributors to the offshore renewable energy (ORE) industry, to support Ireland in meeting its ambitious offshore wind energy targets. Supporting the development of port infrastructure is a core objective of the National Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce and my Department is a key member of the Taskforce in this regard.
In 2021, my Department published a policy statement on the facilitation of offshore renewable energy by commercial ports in Ireland. This policy statement emphasises the importance of port facilities in Ireland for ORE developments.
A dedicated ORE Ports Facilitation Division has been established in my Department to facilitate ports as they progress plans to service the offshore wind industry, and this Division continues to provide support through regular engagement and exploration of financing options with a view to maximising all opportunities available to commercial state ports. This includes facilitating engagement with potential financing partners such as the European Union through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) fund, Ireland Strategic Investment Fund and the European Investment Bank. In this regard, Port of Cork was successful in its recent application for CEF funding, which was supported by my Department, with the port awarded €38.4 million in July 2024 towards the development of its deep-water facility in Ringaskiddy.
I also wish to highlight the significant financing agreement between Port of Cork Company and the Irish Strategic Fund (ISIF) that was announced in October 2024, which was also facilitated by my Department. This investment of €88.5 million by ISIF is enabling Port of Cork to further develop port infrastructure at Ringaskiddy which will meet the specific requirements of the ORE sector. With construction in Ringaskiddy currently underway and a completion date expected in Q4 of 2025, the development will be the first port in Ireland with infrastructure capable of deploying the latest generation of wind turbines in time for Phase 1 ORE projects in Irish waters. This financing agreement and commencement of construction is a significant milestone towards achieving our 2030 renewable energy targets.
The work of my Department can be further evidenced by the signing of an agreement in 2024 with the European Investment Bank (EIB), whereby the EIB will provide advisory support for the development of ORE port projects in Ireland. The assignment is to assess capacity, demand and financing strategies required for the development of ORE port infrastructure, which infrastructure is crucial for the construction, and long-term operation and maintenance of offshore wind projects in Irish waters. The results of this engagement by the EIB will inform the approach of commercial ports and the Department in identifying sources of finance for these projects once they progress through statutory consenting.
Additionally, an ORE Ports Co-Ordination Group has been established by my Department to facilitate consistent engagement with key stakeholders on ports’ progress with their ORE infrastructure projects. The group meets on a quarterly basis and not only allows for ports to engage directly with the Department, but also with other key Government Departments relevant to the delivery of ORE.
Ministerial Staff
Ceisteanna (207)
Aidan Farrelly
Ceist:207. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport to provide a schedule of special advisors attached to him, as of 29 January 2025; and the official grade and or title held by that special advisor. [3008/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As of January 29th, there have been no Special Advisers appointed to support my role as Minister for Transport.
Coast Guard Service
Ceisteanna (208)
Pearse Doherty
Ceist:208. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport when the contract for search and rescue services will expire; if any consideration will be given to bring search and rescue back under public operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3051/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The current helicopter service contract between the Minister for Transport and CHC Ireland DAC commenced on 1st July 2012 for a period of 10 years. It contained an option to extend for a period(s) up to a further 3 years. The contract was extended to July 2025 to facilitate the procurement of a new service in accordance with Public Spending Code requirements.
Following a comprehensive procurement project undertaken by my Department, that included an initial market engagement process, a prequalifying process, an initial Request for Tender, a negotiation process, and final evaluation of a Best and Final Offer Tender from the shortlisted bidders, the Government decided to award a new contract to Bristow Ireland Ltd in mid-2023. The new contract has a 10-year term with options to extend to 13 years
In line with the Government's Public Spending Code, a pre-planning process for the next contract will be conducted in due course and this will include an assessment of a range of strategic options for the provision of the next contract.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (209)
Noel McCarthy
Ceist:209. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport the current situation with respect to planning permission for the installation of EV chargers in public places; the efforts being made by his Department to ensure that property owners with only direct public street access can install EV chargers outside of their properties; if his Department has considered the installation of footpath ducting in such cases to allow charging cables to pass underfoot of public areas, such as those in use in other jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3076/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Home charging is and will remain the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer. Home charging also assists in the overall management of the national grid by reducing the impact of reliance on higher powered and peak-time charging. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home, however for those unable to do so a growing network of neighbourhood and destination charging will provide a reliable alternative.
The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan provides a pathway for the accelerated delivery of destination and neighbourhood charging and will be lead by Local Authorities.
While private EV charging cables going over public land are not currently permitted by law, a significant number of public charge points are scheduled to be delivered over the next year.
Local authorities will be funded by Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) to develop local and regional EV charging network strategies and implementation plans. This process will identify the number of charge points required in each area, including on-street chargers to serve residents without access to private off-street parking.
Other solutions may include off-street community chargers, Shared Charging facilities, and/or use of local Rapid Destination Chargers or Hubs. Some authorities have already completed their strategies, while others are in progress. It is anticipated that most of these plans will be finalised by 2025.
Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) will continue to work directly with the local authority groups as they develop their strategies and will provide other supports and resources as necessary.
ZEVI is also working with:
• DECC to consider what would be required to facilitate wider use and provision of EV charging using private wires.
• Dept. Housing in relation to planning guidance for Local Authorities and developers in relation to EV Infrastructure required for new builds.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (210)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:210. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the difficulties that public transport users are having with the S6 bus route as operated by a company (details supplied) in Dublin; and the steps that will be taken to improve the punctuality and reliability of this route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3097/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this case Go Ahead.
The performance of all public transport operators is monitored by the NTA as part of the contractual arrangements in place between it and the operators. These contractual arrangements allow for not just the monitoring of performance by the NTA and the publication by it of annual performance reports, but importantly, the contracts also allow for the imposition of financial penalties where performance does not meet the required standard.
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.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (211)
Brian Stanley
Ceist:211. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport to make sure that funding is finally provided for the construction of the long-awaited relief road (N80) for Mountmellick town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3105/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to any plans or works in the Mountmellick area. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
Greenways Provision
Ceisteanna (212)
Eoghan Kenny
Ceist:212. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport for an update as of January 2025 on the Mallow-to-Dungarvan Greenway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3108/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. In line with Section 32 (2) of the Roads Act 1993, the planning, design, and construction of individual Greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Investment in Greenway projects is also subject to the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines and necessary statutory approvals.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question, on this occasion, to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (213)
Eoghan Kenny
Ceist:213. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport for an update as of January 2025 on the Cork-Limerick N/M20; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3109/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 on the status of this project.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to the latest status of this project. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
School Transport
Ceisteanna (214)
Brian Stanley
Ceist:214. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport if those over 70 years of age with satisfactory medical reports will be allowed to drive school busses given that currently this is not possible and is resulting in bus operators having problems with the recruitment of drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3147/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, the school transport scheme is a matter for the Minister for Education.
However, I note that the Programme for Government (PFG), Government has committed to "Carry out an independent assessment on the feasibility of removing the exclusion of drivers aged over 70 from the School Transport Scheme". I will be engaging with the Minister for Education and with Bus Éireann on this PfG commitment.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (215)
Eoghan Kenny
Ceist:215. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the progress of the Northern Ring Road in Cork city, and the funding that would be forthcoming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3155/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
Noting the above position, I have referred the question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to the latest status of the Cork City Northern Transport Project (formally the Cork North Ring Road). Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.