Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2025
104. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport the percentage of the new wheelchair accessible DART carriages that will be in service with effect from early 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53606/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ programme.
The DART+ fleet project, which is a key element of the DART+ programme, provides a ten-year procurement framework for electric and battery-electric train fleet.
Two fleet orders have been placed (185 carriages, largely battery-electric with some electric units). The first order for the purchase of 95 additional DART carriages, which compromise of 65 battery-electric carriages and 30 electric carriages, have started arriving and are currently undergoing certification and safety testing. It is intended that the new battery-electric sets will be initially deployed on the Northern Commuter Line serving Dublin to/from Drogheda.
The new DART+ fleet will provide improved accessibility for train users, including low level flooring and entrance doors and larger dedicated wheelchair spaces with easy access from adjacent doors.
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 days.
