Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:126. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach the estimated cost of establishing a research unit at the CSO consisting of four statisticians based on starting point salary of statistician. [46579/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCentral Statistics Office
Ceisteanna (126)
Freagraí scríofa
Circular 22/2026 from the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure and Public Service Reform and Digitalisation sets out the adjustments to civil service pay in accordance with the Public Service Agreement 2024-2026, due on 1st June 2026. Circular 22/2026 provides the salary scales of all grades and CSO staff are paid in accordance with that circular.
The revised pay scale with effect from 1 June 2026 for Statisticians appointed on or after 6th April 1995 that are paying the Class A rate of PRSI contribution and making an employee contribution in respect of personal superannuation benefits (PPC) for General Service Grades is as follows.
STATISTICIAN PAYSCALE AS AT 1 JUNE 2026
|
Grade Description |
STATISTICIAN – PPC |
|
|
Scale Point |
€ |
|
|
1 |
€41,521.00 |
|
|
2 |
€44,270.00 |
|
|
3 |
€45,059.00 |
|
|
4 |
€48,503.00 |
|
|
5 |
€52,934.00 |
|
|
6 |
€56,481.00 |
|
|
7 |
€60,129.00 |
|
|
8 |
€63,840.00 |
|
|
9 |
€67,543.00 |
|
|
10 |
€71,226.00 |
|
|
11 |
€83,113.00 |
|
|
12 |
€86,174.00 |
|
|
13 |
€89,277.00 |
|
|
14 |
€92,390.00 |
|
|
15 |
€95,499.00 |
|
|
16 |
€97,292.00 |
NMAX |
|
17 |
€100,427.00 |
First LSI |
|
18 |
€103,576.00 |
Second LSI |
The estimated cost of a statistician based on starting point salary of a statistician in CSO on 1st June 2026, inclusive of employer PRSI costs, was €46,192 putting the annual cost of establishing a new unit of four statisticians based on starting point salary of statistician at €184,768.
Foreign Policy
Ceisteanna (127)
Barry Ward
Ceist:127. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position of her Department in relation to the continued restrictions imposed on women and girls in Afghanistan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47920/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In accordance with the commitment in "Securing Ireland's Future", Ireland continues to play an active role in seeking to maintain EU and international attention on the appalling human rights situation within Afghanistan and, in particular, the reprehensible restrictions imposed by the Taliban on Afghan women and girls.
In line with our active engagement on this issue, senior officials from my Department recently met with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, while he was visiting Ireland, to discuss Human Rights and humanitarian issues in Afghanistan. Senior officials also met with the EU Special Envoy for Afghanistan, Gilles Bertrand, in Brussels this week.
I believe that the ongoing dire human rights and humanitarian situation in Afghanistan clearly warrants a political level discussion within the Foreign Affairs Council and would support such a discussion taking place, if agreement to do so can be found. Ireland will also continue, including as EU Presidency, actively to support the role of the EU, through its Special Envoy for Afghanistan, in working to address the human rights and humanitarian situation and promote more inclusive and democratic governance within Afghanistan, including through the UN-led Doha process.
Along with other EU Partners, Ireland played a lead role in pressing for the establishment of an Independent Investigative Mechanism on Afghanistan at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council. We will continue working with UN Special Rapporteur Bennett to ensure that this new mechanism is established and made operational as quickly as possible in order to try and help deliver much needed accountability to the people of Afghanistan.
Ireland will remain active at EU and international level to ensure all possible pressure is maintained to bring about improvements in the dire political, economic and humanitarian situation confronting the Afghan people, in particular Afghanistan’s women and girls.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (128)
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:128. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to review a case (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48027/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has issued the passport to the applicant.
Foreign Policy
Ceisteanna (129)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:129. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will report on relations between Ireland and Turkey; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48134/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Bilateral relations between Ireland and Türkiye are positive and constructive. Türkiye opened a resident Embassy in Dublin in 1973, with Ireland establishing an Embassy in Ankara in 1999. While 2026 marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between both countries, relations can be traced back to the 1840’s, with the Ottoman Empire providing financial aid to Ireland during the Great Famine. Our relationship has matured to include many dynamic linkages and connections in the areas of trade, culture and tourism. The sizeable Turkish community in Ireland further represents a strong living connection, enriching Irish society and making a positive contribution to our economy.
The relationship between Ireland and Türkiye has matured to include many dynamic linkages and connections in the areas of trade, culture and tourism. Commercial ties have expanded over the past decade. Ireland’s total goods exports to Türkiye increased during the 2020-2025 period, from €662 million to €866 million. Ireland’s goods imports from Türkiye increased significantly over the same timeframe, rising from €616 million to €1.26 billion. Ireland’s total services exports to Türkiye in 2024 were €3.4 billion. Türkiye is a popular destination for Irish tourists with 196,000 visitors in 2024. Direct flights are provided by five airlines.
Türkiye further represents an important partner for Ireland regarding the Middle East Peace Process. We share many similar perspectives and a strong commitment to the two-State solution. Ireland and Türkiye enjoyed excellent cooperation as Co-Chairs of the Working Group on Preserving the Viability of the Two-State Solution during the UN High Level Conference in 2025. Ireland also recognises the role played by Türkiye following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including through Türkiye hosting talks and its Coalition of the Willing membership. Following the recent interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, Türkiye facilitated the safe passage of 14 Irish citizens from Israel to Türkiye.
Recent political engagement includes An Tánaiste Simon Harris, T.D., meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan at the G20 summit in Johannesburg in February 2025, before hosting Minister Fidan in Ireland for a working lunch in August 2025. Strong parliamentary relations exist, with an Ireland-Türkiye Parliamentary Friendship Group re-established by the Oireachtas in the summer of 2025. A similar group exists in the Turkish Parliament. The then Ceann Comhairle visited Ankara on an official visit in July 2024. Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, T.D., participated in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in April of this year. His visit served both as an opportunity to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations and to meet with his counterpart, Deputy Foreign Minister Bozay.
Ireland fully supports the EU having a close and productive relationship with Türkiye which remains an EU candidate country. For Ireland, accession criteria, particularly in respect of fundamental EU values, have always been crucially important. We support accession for all candidate countries that meet the necessary criteria. 2026 is a particularly significant year, with Ireland assuming the EU Presidency, and Türkiye hosting COP31 in November coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Passport Services
Ceisteanna (130)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:130. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of passport applications received from residents of counties Laois and Offaly in each of the years 2023, 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the number of passports issued to applicants from each county during the same period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48332/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Passport Service is successfully meeting demand for passports this year and has issued nearly half a million passports to date in 2026.
With regard to the Deputy's query about the number of passports applications received and passports issued to citizens resident in Counties Laois and Offaly, in each of the years 2023, 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026, please see the information provided below in tabular form.
PASSPORT APPLICATIONS
|
YEAR |
LAOIS |
OFFALY |
|
2023 |
12,034 |
10,868 |
|
2024 |
11,659 |
10,628 |
|
2025 |
8,884 |
8,134 |
|
01/01/26 - 18/06/26 |
5,201 |
4,607 |
PASSPORTS ISSUED
|
YEAR |
LAOIS |
OFFALY |
|
2023 |
11,329 |
11,059 |
|
2024 |
11,063 |
11,021 |
|
2025 |
9,800 |
8,809 |
|
01/01/26 - 18/06/26 |
4,849 |
4,250 |
In a given calendar year, the number of passports issued by the Passport Service may be higher than the number of passport applications received by the Passport Service. This difference can occur for two reasons: first, an application for a passport bundle (i.e. a passport book and passport card) is counted as one application but two travel documents are issued from that single bundle application, and secondly, an application may be made in the previous calendar year and issued in the following calendar year.
I would ask the Deputy to encourage their constituents to apply for their passports through Passport Online. In particular, those who are travelling this year, especially families with young children who require their first passport, should apply online and in plenty of time. The Passport Service advises citizens to ensure their passports are valid before booking holidays and travel.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (131)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:131. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if alternative funding has been arranged for the STEM engagement officer and the STEM programme, in County Laois; if he recognises the positive contribution made by this role; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48039/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The EU Just Transition Fund (JTF) aims to address the employment, economic, social and environmental impacts that come with the shift away from carbon-intense activities. In Ireland, the EU JTF is focused on the wider Midlands region which has been impacted by the move away from peat production and electricity generation from peat.
The Programme represents a total commitment of €169m to the just transition process in the territory, incorporating €84.5 million from the EU Just Transition Fund for 2021 – 2027 and national co-financing of €84.5m.
Ireland’s EU JTF Programme is across four strategic investment priorities and eight actions. One of the actions (Action 1.2) is the Local Regional Economic Strategies Support Scheme (LRESSS), administered by Pobal, which has supported sustainability-focused projects to support locally-led economic development in the territory. The LRESSS commenced in 2024.
Under LRESSS, Laois County Council submitted an application for funding to implement the ‘Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan Pathway for Just Transition’ under their Regional Enterprise Plans on behalf of four local authorities (Laois, Longford, Offaly, and Westmeath). An element of the plan was recruiting Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) engagement officers in each local authority. This application was approved by my Department on foot of recommended applications for funding from Pobal and was allocated €3.992m in line with the funding requested.
Laois County Council requested that the project completion period be extended from March to September 2026 which my Department approved. The work of the STEM officers completed in advance of the school summer break and the overall project will conclude in September in line with the new agreed programme timeline for EU JTF Action 1.2.
If a local authority wishes to seek additional funding to continue these posts, that is the decision of that local authority and it would be expected to engage with the relevant policy Departments in relation to longer term funding.
Renewable Energy Generation
Ceisteanna (132)
Pádraig Rice
Ceist:132. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the specific measures his Department are taking to ensure Irish households have access to low-cost energy production; the expected timeline to receive the sought guidance on plug-in solar and small-scale microgeneration systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48159/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister, I am supportive of any technology which can reduce costs for households and consumers and increase the share of renewables on our system, provided that it can be integrated safely. For that reason, last month I wrote to ESB Networks (ESBN) requesting that, in its capacity as the body responsible for safety regulations and technical standards for the distribution grid, it works with the National Standards Authority of Ireland, Safe Electric and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities to prioritise and accelerate the development of standards that will permit the use of "plug-in" solar systems in Ireland.
The Managing Director of ESBN has since written to me confirming ESBN's support for the safe, proportionate use of small, plug-in solar or battery devices up to a total of 800W (AC) provided that the following conditions are met:
• customer and public safety are prioritised and assured;
• network integrity and power quality are maintained in all operating conditions;
• the DSO has appropriate visibility of connected generation through a simple registration process; and
• devices meet the relevant technical and product standards.
ESBN has commenced work in this regard and has written to other key stakeholders with a view to coordinating the respective positions and set out a shared pathway to accelerate the deployment of plug-in solar and storage. Engagement with Eirgrid to ensure that it is adequately prepared for the impact of plug-in generation on the transmission network will also take place.
ESBN is also engaging with the UK-based Electricity Networks Association to align approaches with the evolving UK position on plug-in generation and storage to ensure a consistent approach across Northern Ireland and Ireland, reflecting the cross-border market for devices, installers and network participation. My officials are also in contact with officials from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in the UK. EU Guidance on the matter is also being considered
The Domestic Solar PV Grant Scheme, which provides grant support to homes for rooftop solar installations, has gone from strength to strength since its launch, with over 10,000 applicants supported in 2022. 2023 proved even more successful, with domestic solar installation further supported by the Government decision to apply a zero percent VAT rate for the ‘Supply and installation of solar panels on domestic premises from 1 May, 2023'. By the end of 2023, 22,214 homes had received grant supports. In 2025, over 33,000 homes received grant supports. As of May 2026, over 20,000 applications were received (which is an 80% increase in applications, year on year).
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce, was formed to identify, assess and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households. The Taskforce is now leading the response to the energy shock, and the immediate associated energy affordability challenge. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades and continued development of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's retrofit schemes in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
State Bodies
Ceisteanna (133)
Michael Cahill
Ceist:133. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to appoint additional staff to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) office in Cahersiveen, County Kerry to cater for the increase in applications/funding, to ensure that all applications are processed in a timely manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48173/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The staff allocation of the SEAI has increased substantially in recent years from 95 in 2020 to 265 in 2026.
The hiring and management of staff, as well as the deployment of staff to particular locations, is an operational matter for the SEAI.
The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly and in line with the SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is oireachtas@seai.ie.
National Monuments
Ceisteanna (134)
Malcolm Byrne
Ceist:134. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Defence to outline the measures she has in place to protect the national Defence Forces memorial at Merrion Square, Dublin; and if she will address recent concerns about activities by commercial operators at the memorial. [47984/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Memorial for the Defence Forces, located in Merrion Square Park, Dublin, is located on land owned by Dublin City Council. The Council is responsible for the management and maintenance of the memorial, and the Defence Forces have previously liaised with them on these issues.
Regarding the recent concerns mentioned in your questions; I have asked my officials to make direct contact with the Council on this matter with a view to ensuring the impact of such on the site is not repeated.
Defence Forces
Ceisteanna (135)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:135. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the number of horses that had trials for the Defence Forces Equitation School in the years of 2025 and to date in 2026; of the number of horses that had trials the number that were successful in being accepted into the equitation school, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48136/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Army Equitation School's mission is to promote the Irish horse through international competition. To maintain its high standards, the school acquires suitable Irish bred horses through a rigorous process.
After a suitable horse has been identified that meets an existing gap in the Equitation School’s portfolio of horses, the owner is invited to bring the horse to McKee Barracks for an official trial before the members of the Horse Purchase Board, which includes a representative of the Minister for Defence.
The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the table below:
|
Year |
No. of horses trialled |
No. of horses purchased/leased |
|
2025 |
7 |
4 |
|
2026 (to date) |
2 |
2* |
*To note, the purchase of both horses viewed in 2026 is still to be completed pending receipt of paperwork from the sellers.
There are a number of reasons why a horse may not be purchased following a trial, including failure to meet performance standards, disagreement on purchase price, or failing an independent veterinary examination.
Defence Forces
Ceisteanna (136, 138)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:136. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence if any proposals have been submitted to her Department since 2016 seeking the extension of the 1916-2016 Commemorative Medal or the establishment of a separate 1916 centenary medal for veterans and retired members of the Defence Forces who took part in commemoration events; and if she will provide details of any such proposals. [48160/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPaul McAuliffe
Ceist:138. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence if her Department has engaged with veterans' organisations (details supplied) regarding recognition of retired members who took part in commemoration events; and if she will provide details of any such proposals. [48162/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 136 and 138 together.
At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that I recognise the outstanding contribution made to the State by our ex-service personnel.
Following a Government decision, the Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) was formally established on 10 November 2025. The creation of this dedicated office displays the Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting our veterans in recognition of the contribution and service they have made to the State.
My Department provides support to two recognised Veterans Associations the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (ONE). My officials and I meet regularly with these recognised Veterans Associations, as well as the Association of Retired Commissioned Officers (ARCO) and the Retired Enlisted Members Association (REMA), to discuss matters of concern to their members.
With regard to the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal, the Programme for a Partnership Government of 2016 included the commitment to award a commemorative medal to all Defence Forces personnel, Permanent and Reserve, who were recorded as being in service in the course of 2016. This was a special acknowledgement from the Government to the members of Óglaigh na hÉireann, who served during the centenary year of 2016 and in recognition of their contribution to the centenary commemorative events that year.
The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was commissioned to mark a significant event and a particular moment in time. In this matter a new Defence Forces Regulation (DFR), was written and published by the Minister for Defence in November 2016, giving clear, legal effect to the once-off nature of the award.
The issue of whether the medal should also be awarded to veterans was raised immediately, at meetings in December 2016 and February 2017. In recognition of the contribution of veterans to the centenary commemorative events in 2016, a framed medal was presented to the Veterans’ Associations formally recognised by the Department of Defence, namely the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and the Organisation of Ex-Service Personnel (ONE), together with a plaque for each of the 21 Posts of IUNVA and the 41 Branches of ONE around the country.
The recognised Veterans Associations have raised this issue at the regular meetings with the Department, and a number of representations on this issue have also been made by individual veterans.
The Department recently conducted a detailed review of this matter, including correspondence with the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces. Following careful consideration and consultation, supported by military advice from the Chief of Staff, it was decided that the original 2016 award parameters should remain unchanged. The 2016 parameters were deemed clear, legally grounded, proportionate, and consistent with international best practice for once-off national commemorations. Any change to these parameters would conflict with the framework established in 2016 and undermine the once-off intent publicly communicated as part of the State Centenary Program.
The OVA will continue to engage with the Veterans Associations regarding various issues, including service recognition. I would like to again emphasis my respect and admiration of our ex-service personnel and their service to the State.
An Garda Síochána
Ceisteanna (137)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:137. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence if her Department has examined the arrangements adopted by An Garda Síochána in relation to the Garda Síochána Centenary Medal in considering recognition of former members of the Defence Forces who took part in commemoration events; and if she will provide details of any such proposals. [48161/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that I recognise the outstanding contribution made to the State by our ex-service personnel.
The Department recently conducted a detailed review of the issues raised by Veterans Associations in relation to the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal. This review included an examination of the arrangements adopted by An Garda Síochána in relation to the Garda Síochána Centenary Medal (2022).
The Defence Forces 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was never intended to be issued to all personnel who had served in Óglaigh na hÉireann since the organisation was established, rather those who were in service during the centenary year of 2016, as set out in Defence Forces Regulations (DFR) and agreed by the State Centenary Programme Committee .
The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was commissioned to mark a significant event and a particular moment in time. This was similar to the 'War of Independence' medal series, where very clear qualification criteria were established for awarding these medals. In this matter a new DFR, was written and published by the Minister for Defence in November 2016, giving clear, legal effect to the once-off nature of the award.
In recognition of the contribution of veterans to the centenary commemorative events in 2016, a framed medal was presented to the Veterans’ Associations formally recognised by the Department of Defence, namely the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and the Organisation of Ex-Service Personnel (ONE), together with a plaque for each of the 21 Posts of IUNVA and the 41 Branches of ONE around the country.
The recently conducted review of this matter, including military advice from the Chief of Staff, concluded that the original 2016 award parameters should remain unchanged. Any deviation from this would conflict with the framework established in 2016 and run counter to the once off intent publicly communicated as part of the State Centenary Programme.
Question No. 138 answered with Question No. 136.
Defence Forces
Ceisteanna (139)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:139. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel who received the 1916-2016 Commemorative Medal; the eligibility criteria applied; and whether extending eligibility to retired members who took part in the 1916 commemorative events was considered at the time. [48163/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Programme for a Partnership Government of 2016 included the commitment to award a commemorative medal to all Defence Forces personnel, Permanent and Reserve, who were recorded as being in service in the course of 2016. The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was a special acknowledgement from the Government to the members of Óglaigh na hÉireann, who served during the centenary year of 2016 and in recognition of their contribution to the centenary commemorative events that year. Eligibility criteria was set out in a new Defence Force Regulation published by the Minister for Defence in November 2016, giving clear, legal effect to the once-off nature of the award. This specified that the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was to be given to all members of the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force who were in service in 2016.
The Military Authorities have advised that some 9,500 medals were provided for the PDF and 2,500 medals for the RDF.
The issue of whether the medal should also be awarded to veterans was raised immediately, at meetings in December 2016 and February 2017. In recognition of the contribution of veterans to the centenary commemorative events in 2016, a framed medal was presented to the Veterans’ Associations formally recognised by the Department of Defence, namely the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and the Organisation of Ex-Service Personnel (ONE), together with a plaque for each of the 21 Posts of IUNVA and the 41 Branches of ONE around the country.
Finally, I would like to recognise and acknowledge our ex-service personnel for their service and contribution to the State.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (140)
Paul Murphy
Ceist:140. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the number of cars estimated to be scrapped under the announced ICE2EV scheme; whether €10 million is actually being allocated to the ICE2EV scheme, as indicated by his Department’s press release, or whether that €10 million includes the already existing €3,500 EV grant per car (details supplied). [47904/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The €5,000 scrappage payment will support the transition of up to 2,000 vehicles from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), with the full €10 million allocation from the Climate Action Fund reserved for these payments.
The new ICE2EV scrappage scheme is a demand-led and capped pilot scheme. It is intended to address a specific and persistent emissions challenge within the private car fleet: the continued operation of older, highly polluting ICE vehicles.
Following consideration of a range of approaches, and based on the hugely positive response to the scheme from the sector and the public recently, I have instructed that the scheme be refined to optimise the number of electric vehicles that can be purchased through the scheme, thereby ensuring it best delivers the overarching policy objective of accelerating the transition to EVs.
The pilot scheme will be reviewed to assess its overall impact and the effectiveness of scrappage as a policy tool. Data from the scheme will be used to gauge the level of interest in the take-up of a scheme of this nature, to provide insights in respect of the types of vehicles being scrapped (e.g. their age and mileage), as well as to monitor the regional distribution of take-up (i.e. by region, as well as the urban / rural split). A number of factors will be taken into account including overall uptake and demand for the scheme, the pace at which available funding is drawn down, and the level of participation across different geographic areas, including rural and urban applicants.
Any further iterations of the scheme will be subject to the evaluation of this pilot, as well as wider budgetary considerations
Dublin Airport Authority
Ceisteanna (141)
Emer Currie
Ceist:141. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm the measures that are being taken in the context of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026 and the voluntary dwelling purchase scheme to ensure that affected households are not financially disadvantaged when relocating, having regard to current property market conditions; in particular whether replacement value, disturbance, and reinstatement costs will be fully incorporated into compensation assessments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47906/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I would like to begin by clarifying that as Minister for Transport I have no role in determining the criteria for the insulation or voluntary dwelling purchase schemes.
That said, I have consistently emphasised the importance of daa acting as a good neighbour to those impacted by airport operations and the need for meaningful engagement with local communities on these issues.
In this regard, I wrote to daa in October last year and again in March of this year, reiterating the importance of sustained engagement with local communities most directly impacted by aircraft noise. In those letters, I also requested updates on what measures daa was considering strengthening in its noise mitigation programme.
daa has subsequently advised that under the relevant planning conditions, eligibility for all three noise mitigation schemes, including the Voluntary Dwelling Purchase Scheme, are subject to review every two years, with the next review due to commence in the coming months. This review will be based on 2025 operational and noise data, ensuring that the assessment accurately reflects the actual noise environment experienced by local communities. This is an important mechanism to ensure that supports remain aligned with real world impacts.
It is also worth noting that the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) published its draft regulatory decision on daa’s Infrastructure Application on 28 May 2026. ANCA is currently undertaking a 14-week public consultation process in relation to that draft decision and on the measures proposed to address any noise impacts arising on foot of granting permission for that planning application. I encourage all those with an interest in the outcome of this assessment to participate fully in the process.
Finally, in relation to the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026, the Bill proposes to empower me in my capacity as the Minister for Transport to make an order to amend or revoke the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. When enacted, and in advance of making an order, the Bill proposes that I will engage with An Coimisiúin Pleanála who will carry out the necessary environmental assessments under EU law, and I will take account of the outcome of those assessments in making an order. I intend to commence the process for the necessary environmental assessments as soon as the Bill is enacted and I am committed to ensuring that the assessments are completed within the strict timelines set out in the Bill and an Order is made to amend or revoke the passenger cap as soon as possible.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (142)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:142. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if additional funding for the EV scrappage scheme will be provided if the scheme is over prescribed (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47908/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The new ICE2EV scrappage scheme is a demand-led and capped pilot scheme. It is intended to address a specific and persistent emissions challenge within the private car fleet: the continued operation of older, highly polluting ICE vehicles.
As with any popular pilot initiative run on a capped, first come first served basis, there is always the potential that those unsuccessful in applying for the scheme will be disappointed and that is regrettable.
However, following consideration of a range of approaches, and based on the hugely positive response to the scheme from the sector and the public, I have instructed that the scheme be refined to optimise the number of electric vehicles that can be purchased through the scheme, thereby ensuring it best delivers the overarching policy objective of accelerating the transition to EVs.
The €5,000 scrappage payment will support the transition of up to 2,000 vehicles from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), with the full €10 million allocation from the Climate Action Fund now reserved for these payments.
The pilot scheme will be reviewed to assess its overall impact and the effectiveness of scrappage as a policy tool. Data from the scheme will be used to gauge the level of interest in the take-up of a scheme of this nature, to provide insights in respect of the types of vehicles being scrapped (e.g. their age and mileage), as well as to monitor the regional distribution of take-up (i.e. by region, as well as the urban / rural split). A number of factors will be taken into account including overall uptake and demand for the scheme, the pace at which available funding is drawn down, and the level of participation across different geographic areas, including rural and urban applicants. In addition, the scheme will be evaluated in terms of its impact on supporting the replacement of older, higher-emitting vehicles, its contribution to increased electric vehicle uptake, and its alignment with wider climate and transport objectives.
Any further iterations of the scheme will be subject to the evaluation of this pilot, and as part of wider budgetary considerations.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (143)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Ceist:143. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he will extend DART Plus Southwest directly through Sallins, Newbridge, and Kildare town to correct for clear infrastructure imbalance between the north and south of the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48023/26]
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 DART+ programme, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Pending this more detailed response, I note that DART+ South West will extend DART services from the City Centre to Hazelhatch and Celbridge including four-tracking from Park West to Heuston.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (144)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Ceist:144. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide for increased train capacity for commuters in Sallins, Newbridge, Kildare town and Monasterevin as peak-time trains are consistently overcrowded; if he will provide high-frequency shuttles in the interim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48024/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As 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 query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (145)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Ceist:145. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide capital investment for a dedicated, continuous bus lane on the N7 corridor to enhance the efficiency, to alleviate gridlock and to ensure predictable transit times for south Kildare commuters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48025/26]
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 planning, design and construction 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.
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.