Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
418. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport if he will amend the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 to include Louth for the purpose of sustainable transport planning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40088/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure across Ireland.
The revised statutory Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042 was developed by the NTA, in consultation with the relevant Local Authorities, and published in 2023 following the Minister for Transport’s approval. This strategy sets out how transport will be developed across the region, covering Dublin, Meath, Wicklow and Kildare, in accordance with the Dublin Transport Authority Act, as amended. The next review of the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy is due to commence in 2027. Once sufficiently developed the draft Transport Strategy will be opened to full public consultation.
For the information of the Deputy, the Dublin Transport Authority (Amendment) Bill 2026 is included in the Government's Legislation Programme for Summer 2026. The Dublin Transport Authority (Amendment) Bill 2026 was published on 15 May 2026 and is set for Second Stage in the Dáil on 26 May 2026. The purpose of this Bill is to provide a clear legislative framework to extend the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) remit under section 44 of the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008 (Act of 2008), to enable the NTA to undertake the construction of public transport infrastructure projects such as BusConnects, in the State as it currently does in the Greater Dublin Metropolitan Area.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
