Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2026
174. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport his plans for recruitment given the current shortage of drivers and mechanics in Dublin Bus and Go Ahead, and the planned expansion of the service with the next phase of Bus Connects [31341/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs 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 Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead.
Further, I can assure the Deputy that I recognise the importance of maintaining an adequately resourced workforce to support the delivery of public transport services. The Programme for Government commits to enhancing and supporting a skilled workforce to maintain and operate public transport vehicles.
To advance this commitment, my Department chairs the Public Transport Workforce Taskforce, which brings together representatives from the relevant Departments, agencies, public transport operators, including Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead, and training bodies. The Taskforce is tasked with identifying the key factors contributing to recruitment challenges and developing practical measures to support a sustainable pipeline of drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers. My Department will continue to engage with stakeholders, with a view to producing an action plan in the coming months.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have also 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.
