Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2026
246. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the detailed breakdown of the funding allocated to delivering new public transport services; and to provide a detailed breakdown of the funding allocated to delivering new public transport services in each of the years 2020 to date. [50726/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra247. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the funding allocated to delivering new services in 2026; to provide a detailed breakdown of the new services delivered in 2026; and to provide a detailed breakdown of the new services that will be delivered in 2026, in tabular form. [50727/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 246 and 247 together.
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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.
We are at a key juncture for public transport in Ireland. Reliable and sustainable services are critical as passenger numbers grow, congestion worsens in urban areas, and a greater proportion of the population depends on public transport for commuting, education, and essential travel.
A fundamental reset in funding was required to place the PSO programme on a sustainable, long-term footing, in line with the Programme for Government. To underpin this, my Department secured an unprecedented €940 million allocation for PSO services in Budget 2026, a substantial 43% increase on Budget 2025. This significant investment provides a robust foundation to ensure that existing public transport services are delivered reliably and sustainably throughout the year, enabling the system to meet rising passenger demand and assist to absorb growing operational costs.
The 2026 allocation therefore focuses on maintaining and strengthening the existing network after several years of reliance on significant supplementary funding in recent years. This ensures that high-demand public transport services can continue to operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.
The NTA is managing the 2026 allocation by prioritising delivery of existing programmes in line with operational readiness and resources. Enhancements within the current allocation are prioritised, some changes are cost-neutral, while others require additional resources, and all are subject to funding, readiness, and capacity.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
