Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
173. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Transport if his Department provides support for the private coach sector to make their fleet more accessible for passengers with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2872/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 and the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009, the Oireachtas assigned statutory responsibility to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for promoting the development of an integrated, accessible public transport network and public transport infrastructure. The NTA in turn works with the relevant public transport operators, for example Dublin Bus, who have responsibility for day-to-day operational issues, to progressively make public transport accessible.
The bus fleets operated by private sector companies which receive state funding under Public Service Obligation (PSO) programme, for example Go-Ahead, are accessible, as are approximately 95% of TFI Local Link funded services operated by private sector companies in rural and regional areas.
In line with our aim for 100% accessibility of public transport services nationwide, I am committed to establishing a pathway to support commercial bus operators to transition to a 100% wheelchair accessible and low / zero emission fleet. Under the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030, my Department and the NTA aim to produce recommendations and decide on such a support scheme by the end of 2026.
Question No. 174 answered with Question No. 122.
