Duncan Smith
Ceist:174. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence her views on calls from the Spanish Government about the need for an EU army; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38525/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMilitary Neutrality
Ceisteanna (174)
Freagraí scríofa
With regards for calls for an EU army, and as the Deputy may be aware, any decision to deepen EU defence cooperation requires unanimity. Furthermore, the Irish Protocols to the Lisbon Treaty specifically state that the Lisbon Treaty does not provide for the creation of a European army.
Ireland maintains a policy of military neutrality which is characterised by non-membership of military alliances and non-participation in common or mutual defence arrangements. Our EU partners have always fully respected Ireland’s sovereignty, independence and neutrality, and it is worth adding that Ireland's participation in EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) does not prejudice national policy in that regard. The legal guarantees given by the European Council in June 2009 confirmed that the EU’s security and defence policy does not affect or prejudice Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality.
Given that decision-making power in relation to any proposed actions in the Defence sphere remain a national competence, it remains a matter for Ireland to decide our own way forward.
Naval Service
Ceisteanna (175)
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Ceist:175. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Defence if she will confirm that the Naval Service fisheries monitoring centre is adequately resourced to perform its responsibilities throughout the Irish EEZ. [38495/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Naval Service acts as the official agency with responsibility for the operation of Ireland’s Fisheries Monitoring Centre (FMC). The FMC is located at Naval Base Haulbowline. This responsibility is carried out as part of a Service Level Agreement between the Department of Defence, Naval Service and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA).
The FMC carries out monitoring and surveillance of all vessels equipped with a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) that are operating in or near to the Irish EEZ and also of all Irish vessels operating in any jurisdiction. The FMC is staffed twenty four hours a day seven days a week by a combination of military and civilian personnel. I am satisfied that the Centre is resourced appropriately to perform it's responsibilities throughout the Irish EEZ.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (176)
Danny Healy-Rae
Ceist:176. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if a filter lane will be provided at Ballymacpearse Junction in Castleisland where the L6543 meets with the N21 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38447/26]
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 operation and management 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 in relation to the N21 at Ballymacpearse Junction in Castleisland.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Park-and-Ride Facilities
Ceisteanna (177)
John Brady
Ceist:177. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport when the new park-and-ride facility at Fassaroe, Bray county Wicklow will be operational; the details of the buses and frequency that will serve the facility; the cost of developing the facility; if changes were made to the specifications of the design; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38459/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure projects and services within the Greater Dublin Area, including park and ride facilities at Fassaroe.
I have referred the Deputy’s questions regarding the Fassaroe park and ride facility, including its operational timeline, associated bus services and frequencies, project costs, and design specifications, to the NTA for direct, detailed reply. Please contact my office if a response is not received within ten working days.
Public Service Obligation
Ceisteanna (178)
John Brady
Ceist:178. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding discussions between his Department and the National Transport Authority in relation to funding of the PSO, public service obligation, programme; when these discussions will be concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38460/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Improving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government. While my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, it is the NTA that have the statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.
Sustained and increasing investment in the PSO programme over the last few years has led to record public transport usage in 2025, with passenger numbers more than 23% above pre-Covid levels, alongside expanded network coverage connecting over 240 towns and villages.
In this context, we secured an unprecedented allocation of €940 million for PSO services in Budget 2026, a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from Budget 2025. This allocation ensures that existing public transport services can operate reliably and sustainably throughout the year in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs. The 2026 allocation maintains targeted fares initiatives such as the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and the Young Adult Card for those aged 19-25, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy.
In terms of engagement, my Department engages with the NTA on an ongoing basis through structured formal mechanisms, including the PSO Oversight Group which is chaired by my Department, and meets on a monthly basis to ensure robust financial and performance oversight. This is further supplemented by monthly senior management meetings, as well as regular day-to-day engagement on matters at hand
I can assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to delivering an accessible, reliable and affordable public transport system for all our citizens.
Departmental Budgets
Ceisteanna (179)
John Brady
Ceist:179. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport if his Department's budget is sufficient for new services to be provided in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38461/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Investment in public transport nationwide is an all time high. The 2026-2030 National Development Plan outlines a €24.3 billion investment in Ireland's transport sector, with a focus on enhancing public transport and active travel. This marks a transformative moment for Ireland’s transport system, delivering sustainable and accessible travel options to connect us all. Additionally, as secured in Budget 2026, the PSO programme and associated services are being supported by an unprecedented increase in funding of €940 million - a 43% increase compared to last year.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising and strengthening the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. The NTA will continue to prioritise improvements, within its €940 million allocation.
With over 363.5 million journeys undertaken in 2025, supported by the PSO programme, Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services.
At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing workforce shortages, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers. This challenge is affecting some service performance across the network. However, operators are actively engaging with the NTA and the Department to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints.
In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system. The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs. Subsequently decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have also forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (180)
John Brady
Ceist:180. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Transport to provide a full breakdown of new services planned to be provided in 2026; the breakdown on whether they are now operational; the reason some planned routes have not yet commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38462/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Investment in public transport nationwide is an all time high. The 2026-2030 National Development Plan outlines a €24.3 billion investment in Ireland's transport sector, with a focus on enhancing public transport and active travel. This marks a transformative moment for Ireland’s transport system, delivering sustainable and accessible travel options to connect us all. Additionally, as secured in Budget 2026, the PSO programme and associated services are being supported by an unprecedented increase in funding of €940 million - a 43% increase compared to last year.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising and strengthening the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. The NTA will continue to prioritise improvements, within its €940 million allocation.
With over 363.5 million journeys undertaken in 2025, supported by the PSO programme, Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services.
At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing workforce shortages, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers. This challenge is affecting some service performance across the network. However, operators are actively engaging with the NTA and the Department to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints.
In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system. The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs. Subsequently decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have also forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (181)
Louis O'Hara
Ceist:181. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the reopening of the western rail corridor between Athenry and Claremorris; the estimated timeline for delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38463/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Following the publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review in July 2024, my Department, with the support of the European Investment Bank and in conjunction with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland, oversaw the preparation of the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy. This Strategy was published in December 2025 and outlines the approach to sequencing and optimising the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review in the coming years.
In the short-term to 2030, the Prioritisation Strategy specifies a number of 'Early Interventions' to be delivered in the coming years, including new track passing loops and platforms to boost the rail network’s resilience and capacity, including on the Dublin to Galway line a second platform at Clara and Woodlawn stations. These investments are funded to be fully delivered by 2030 under the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport, published by my Department in November 2025.
The Prioritisation Strategy also identifies 'Major Projects' with longer lead-in and development timelines. Among these is the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor between Claremorris and Athenry. The NDP Sectoral Investment Plan includes funding to commence construction of this reinstatement project, subject to any necessary planning or other approvals. Early work is already underway in terms of clearing vegetation on the line.
It should be noted that individual programmes and projects referred to within the All-Island Strategic Rail Review and the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy will be advanced subject to funding and relevant approvals, as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (182)
Malcolm Byrne
Ceist:182. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 233 and 234 of 30 April, if he will advise the Road Safety Authority of same and direct that it renew a driving licence (details supplied) in order that the person can resume work. [38465/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise that all enquiries relating to driver licensing are handled by the National Driver Licence Service, the provision of which is delegated under national legislation to the Road Safety Authority. Neither I nor the Department have any role in individual driving licence matters.
I have referred this matter to the Authority for direct reply. Please contact my office if a reply has not been received from the RSA in the next ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (183)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:183. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport if the National Transport Authority has examined the feasibility of reopening the Curragh train platform in County Kildare, including for use as a park-and-ride facility or for event-based services; if there are any plans to progress this proposal in order to alleviate capacity pressures at Kildare and Newbridge train stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38522/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of the rail network, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific queries raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Official Engagements
Ceisteanna (184)
Duncan Smith
Ceist:184. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the number of engagements she has had with American officials in 2026; the number of times the topic of sanctioning the State of Israel was raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38526/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport I have had one engagement so far in 2026 with Assistant Secretary Dan Edwards in the US Department of Transportation. A number of topics were discussed that related to our shared responsibilities.
Official Engagements
Ceisteanna (185)
Duncan Smith
Ceist:185. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the engagement he has had with American officials on the possibility of Donald Trump attending the Irish Open this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38527/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport I have had no engagements with American officials on the possibility of Donald Trump attending the Irish Open this year.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (186)
Louis O'Hara
Ceist:186. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport when TII will progress the redesign of Kilmeen Cross N65-R446, Loughrea, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38545/26]
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 operation and management 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 in relation to the N65 at Kilmeen Cross, Loughrea, Co. Galway.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Greenways Provision
Ceisteanna (187)
Michael Cahill
Ceist:187. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport further to numerous previous requests, to ensure that Glenbeigh village is made ‘greenway ready’ in terms of pedestrian crossings, surface dressing, new footpaths and lighting (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38569/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I would like to thank the Deputy for his continued interest in Greenway infrastructure in Kerry. As previously stated, as the Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. I note that there has been significant investment in Greenway schemes in County Kerry, with €9,950,000 allocated in 2026, of which €9,200,000 has been allocated to the South Kerry Greenway.
Under 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.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Sector Pensions
Ceisteanna (188)
Michael Murphy
Ceist:188. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the current status of the proposed increase to the CIÉ salaried staff pension scheme; the stage the matter is currently at; if all necessary approvals will be completed in time for consideration at the June 2026 CIÉ board meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38628/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
Following on from the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward as of May 2025, my Department, alongside our financial and commercial advisors NewERA, are currently engaging with all relevant stakeholders. This includes CIÉ, the Pensions Authority and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the next steps in progressing the agreement and bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members, including review of the relevant statutory instruments and the matter of increases to pension payments.
My Department and all relevant stakeholders are endeavouring to achieve the same at the earliest, keeping in line with the appropriate procedures, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals as part of the formal process, which is now well underway.