Transport Costs

Tuesday, 7 July 2026

Ceisteanna (215)

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

215. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport if he will acknowledge the significant financial difficulties faced by many pensioners who rely on older vehicles due to the lack of affordable public transport alternatives in rural areas; the challenges they face in meeting the increasing costs of vehicle maintenance, repairs, insurance and NCT requirements; and if he will consider introducing targeted supports or grants to assist older persons on fixed incomes to maintain roadworthy vehicles, given that existing incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles are beyond the financial reach of many pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51588/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Accessible, reliable and affordable transport services are essential for older people living in rural areas. Under Budget 2026, the Department of Transport secured €31 million for rural transport service provision, representing a 38% increase on last year’s funding. This investment underpins our ongoing commitment to Connecting Ireland, which has delivered 185 new or enhanced services since 2022, connecting over 240 towns and villages to the public transport network.

While I appreciate the financial pressures associated with owning and operating a vehicle, the costs of vehicle maintenance and motor insurance do not fall within the remit of the Department of Transport.

I can confirm, however, that the Department is developing a new Vehicle Adaption Scheme, to improve functional mobility by assisting with the cost of vehicle adaptations. The scheme will be open to drivers and passengers who have a need for vehicle adaptations to enable them to enter, exit or operate a vehicle.

Subject to timely Government approval and the completion of the necessary preparatory work, it is possible that the VAS will open for applications in Q1 2027.