Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
361. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the rollout of a service (details suppled); if the funding provided for new bus routes in Dublin west in 2026 means that this route will not be launched until 2027; if additional funding will be provided to launch the route this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39004/26]
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 context, the NTA continues to keep public transport connectivity, including access to Dublin Airport, under ongoing and active review as part of its wider network planning responsibilities. While there is no direct public transport from Dublin mid west to the Airport, a range of convenient and flexible travel options are available. Passengers can travel readily by rail or bus to the city centre, where they can benefit from frequent services operating to Dublin Airport.
Looking ahead, the NTA is continuing to invest in in additional orbital bus services that will provide more options to reach Dublin Airport by public transport. For example, route W4 which currently operates between Tallaght and Blanchardstown via Grange Castle, Kishoge Station, Ballyowen Road and Liffey Valley will connect with planned new route N8 at Blanchardstown. Route N8 will run between Blanchardstown and Clongriffin via Dublin Airport.
The exact implementation date for route N8 will be determined by funding provision and operational readiness. When this launches, it will allow seamless and easy interchange at Blanchardstown with many bus services serving west Dublin, including the W4 service which runs from Tallaght to Blanchardstown.
Further, the Dublin Airport Authority’s planning application, currently under consideration by Fingal County Council, proposes to increase passenger capacity to 40 million per annum. As part of its proposal, DAA has sought approval for a new Ground Transportation Centre to consolidate airport bus services. This would provide improved bus passenger facilities and increased bus bay capacity, supporting the continued growth of public transport for Airport passengers and employees. Additionally, MetroLink will integrate directly with Iarnród Éireann services at Glasnevin, thereby significantly improving public transport access to Dublin airport from the mid-west.
The Government remains committed to improving public transport services, and my Department will continue to engage with the NTA on future service planning and with the DAA on the proposed enhancements to bus infrastructure at Dublin Airport, to improve wider connectivity offerings.
