Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
53. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he plans to extend the new late-night transport pilot serving rural night-time economy locations to other towns and other counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32997/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Night-Time Economy (NTE) is an important component in the development of our towns and cities, playing a crucial role in economic growth, cultural vibrancy, social vitality, urban and rural regeneration.
The Night-Time Economy Implementation Group, which my department chairs, oversees the progression of the actions recommended in the NTE Taskforce Report and ensures that these actions remain current. The National Transport Authority (NTA), Department of Rural and Community Development and the National Town Centre First Office are all active members of the Night-Time Implementation Group and the NTE Unit of my department has been working closely with these members to look at ways to further develop and provide more late-night transport options across the country.
The Night-Time Economy pilots have also been a significant project in this policy area with Night-Time Advisors located in Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Sligo, Buncrana (Donegal), Longford, Limerick, Drogheda (Louth) and Dublin. During the development of the NTE strategies in Longford, Sligo and Buncrana, the lack of transport options for people travelling out of each of the towns was identified as a significant barrier in the development of the NTE in these locations.
The ‘One at One’ late night transport pilot initiative was developed by the Night-Time Advisors to address the primary transportation barrier identified during the research phase of the pilot project. The pilot is supported by my department and has been delivered in partnership with the NTA and Local Link. The pilot service will help support the ease of movement for people who wish to enjoy evenings in Sligo, Longford and Buncrana Towns, particularly benefiting businesses in the Night-Time Economy.
At this stage, ‘The One at One’ pilot initiative is focused on the delivery in the selected areas only, there are currently no plans to extend this pilot initiative. A full evaluation of the pilot initiative will be conducted to assess the overall effectiveness and future feasibility of the services. I will be happy to share these findings once that evaluation has been completed.
That said, it is important to note that the provision of additional late night transport services is ultimately the responsibility of the National Transport Authority.
