Barry Ward
Ceist:265. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport if an application to renew a driving licence can be made on-line; and if not, if he will indicate the process an applicant has to follow. [68350/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDriver Licences
Ceisteanna (265)
Freagraí scríofa
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the operation of the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS).
I am informed by the RSA that the NDLS offers a range of services through its online portal including applications for renewals of driving licences, applications for first-time learner permits and driving licences, applications for replacements, updates to personal details and the exchange of foreign driving licences for Irish driving licences.
Information on renewing a driving licence online, including the documentation required, is available on the NDLS website at www.ndls.ie/licensed-driver/renew-my-driving-licence.html.
Applicants who do not wish to avail of the online service can apply in person at an NDLS centre.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (266)
Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:266. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the status of the Luas Finglas and to provide an updated timeline for the project to commence construction. [68324/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including light rail.
Luas Finglas is an exciting project that has the potential to transform Finglas and the wider area.
Government's consent for approval for the project to proceed at Approval Gate 1 of the Infrastructure Guidelines was obtained on 22 October 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála published its decision to grant the Luas Finglas Railway Order in October 2025. I warmly welcome the subsequent withdrawal of a legal challenges, as it means that we now have full planning permission in place to move forward with the Luas Finglas extension.
Luas Finglas is one of the four light rail proposals identified for development and delivery within the lifetime of the NTA Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042. The project is identified in the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025. Specifically, under the Sectoral Investment Plan, the main construction works will commence by 2029, and some enabling works may commence beforehand.
I understand that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is currently preparing the Approval Gate 2 documentation, which is expected to be submitted to my Department and the NTA in the coming months.
Noting the NTA's responsibility the Luas Finglas project, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive reply within 10 days.
Road Safety
Ceisteanna (267)
Grace Boland
Ceist:267. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport the criteria that will be used to identify, prioritise and select locations for the deployment of new traffic enforcement cameras under the National Safety Camera Strategy; whether school routes, areas with high levels of red-light violations and locations where local communities have raised persistent road safety concerns will be included within those criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68393/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Camera based enforcement, like all enforcement of road traffic offences, is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. To assist An Garda Síochána in this work, the National Safety Camera Strategy was developed and published on 29 April of this year. The Strategy aligns with Programme for Government commitments to expand the use of safety cameras across the road network and also delivers on part one of Action 6 of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy Phase 2 Action Plan 2025 - 2027.
The Strategy provides the framework for the increased deployment of cameras across the network, in both urban and rural locations, to assist with the enforcement of a wide range of road traffic offences. It focuses on speeding, red light running, and bus lane infringements, with flexibility for the enforcement of other types of offence in future.
A Camera Enforcement Oversight Group has been established to deliver the Strategy, chaired by the CEO of the National Transport Authority (NTA) and comprising senior leaders from An Garda Síochána, NTA, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Road Safety Authority, the Courts Service and the Local Authority sector. The Oversight Group has met twice, on 16 June and 5 August and I expect a progress update to be presented at the next Road Safety Leadership Group meeting.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (268)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:268. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport the number of enforcement notices issued under Part 4 of the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019; and the number of applications made to the High Court under that Part, since the commencement of those provisions. [68428/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Regarding Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) enforcement actions, I can confirm that ANCA has taken no enforcement actions under Part 4 of the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (269)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:269. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport to identify the person, office or body that determined that the flight paths at Dublin Airport are not a factor, part or condition of the planning permission for the North runway; the capacity and date, given that his Department has stated that no record of any such determination exists and that Fingal County Council has identified no such determination. [68427/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, flight paths are not a condition of planning at Dublin Airport.
However, I do recognise that this matter was the subject of significant debate during pre-legislative scrutiny of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Act 2026, and I acknowledge the concerns raised regarding the need for clarity and transparency in relation to flight paths and noise modelling associated with operations at Dublin Airport.
Therefore, I have committed to ensuring that an independent assessment of flight paths at Dublin Airport will be undertaken at the appropriate time.
The most suitable point for this work will most likely be when a final decision is made regarding the North Runway Relevant Action. This timing will ensure that the assessment is based on the most accurate and current operational data, incorporating the latest noise modelling methodologies, and can support the identification of appropriate solutions.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (270)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:270. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport to list the noise abatement procedures in place at Dublin Airport which his Department states are fully consistent with the Environmental Noise Directive and Regulation (EU) No 598/2014, identifying for each the instrument specifying it and the body verifying compliance with it. [68407/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As a Contracting State to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and a member state of the European Union (EU), Ireland complies with ICAO standards and EU legislation regarding civil aviation.
As the Deputy will be aware the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 provides a wholly independent aircraft noise regulation process in accordance with EU Regulation 598/2014. The Act provides that all future development at Dublin airport is subject to assessment and mitigation in respect of the impact of associated aircraft movements on the noise environment around Dublin Airport.
The Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) is the independent regulator for the management of aircraft noise at Dublin Airport.
A Noise Abatement Objective (NAO) is a policy objective for managing the effects of aircraft noise on surrounding communities and the environment at an airport. It is intended to ensure that airport operations and future growth are managed in the most sustainable manner possible, while providing a framework to guide decisions on aircraft noise management and mitigation measures.
ANCA originally established a NAO for Dublin Airport in 2022 to ensure that aircraft noise is considered as part of the sustainable development of the airport. It has a clear policy objective supported by measurable criteria and outcomes and serves as the benchmark against which noise mitigation measures and operating restrictions are assessed and reviewed.
In 2026, as part of its assessment of a proposed increase in Dublin Airport's passenger capacity and associated infrastructure development, ANCA reviewed and updated the NAO to reflect the airport's future operation. ANCA recently completed a public consultation on the amended NAO and associated draft aircraft noise mitigation measures. The consultation, which ran from 28 May to 3 September 2026, provided an opportunity for local communities, stakeholders and the wider public to review the proposed objective and submit observations before ANCA finalises its regulatory decision.
On an annual basis, ANCA has a remit to review the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures in achieving the NAO for Dublin Airport. Where monitoring indicates that noise mitigation is ineffective or the NAO outcomes are not being met, ANCA is empowered to introduce or amend regulatory restrictions and operational requirements to force compliance with those objectives.
Separately, in 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was designated as the National Authority under Section 5(1) of the European Communities (Environmental Noise) Regulations 2018 (S.I. No. 549 of 2018). This requires the EPA to exercise general supervision over the functions and actions of noise-mapping bodies and action planning authorities, including Fingal County Council, in relation the Dublin Airport Noise Map and Action Plan, and to provide guidance or advice to such bodies and authorities, where necessary.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (271)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:271. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport the date on which he appointed a person by notice in writing under section 3(9)(a) of the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019; the individual appointed; the terms of reference used; whether the resulting report will be published; and whether it will be furnished before the competent authority issues its regulatory decision on the current application. [68418/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019, Section 3, provides for a review of the performance of the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) after 7 years, following enactment of the 2019 Act, and then at each 5-year interval, thereafter.
My Department issued a request for tender on eTenders for the provision of consultancy services for the review of ANCA in January 2026. The procurement process is now complete and a preferred supplier, CAA International Ltd, was selected.
The contract with CAA International Ltd was signed on 22 April 2026. The Terms of Reference are not being made publicly available, so as not to prejudice in any manner the ongoing review conducted by CAA International Ltd, on behalf of my Department. The review is expected to be completed in Q2 2027. It is not currently intended to publish the report.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (272)
Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Ceist:272. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that cash payment options remain on rail services, particularly for free travel pass holders who may not have access to a bank card; and if he will ensure that these users who are not familiar with online systems have an alternative and accessible way to book seats, particularly when ticket machines are not always working. [68436/26]
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.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (273)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:273. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport the way in which the aircraft noise competent authority's independence of the airport authority is achieved for the purposes of Article 3(2) of Regulation (EU) No 598/2014; and if it is achieved by a functional separation, to identify it, given that its operating costs are recouped from the airport operator and that section 19(1)(b) of the 2019 Act places the noise measuring systems in that operator's hands. [68425/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Regarding the independence of the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA), as the Deputy will be aware, the designation of Fingal County Council (FCC) as the Competent Authority was subject to extensive debate in the Dáil and Seanad, and during the pre-legislative scrutiny of the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 (the 2019 Act).
Furthermore, my department also sought legal advice on the matter at the time to ensure the selection of FCC met with the independence criterion of EU Regulation 598/2014.
The 2019 Act gave effect to EU Regulation 598/2014 in Ireland. Under Section 3 of the 2019 Act, FCC is designated as the sole competent authority for the purposes of EU Regulation 598/2014 under Section 3 (1) of the 2019 Act.
As per the 2019 Act, the competent authority functions are vested in the Chief Executive of FCC or a suitable delegate.
Following enactment of the 2019 Act, the FCC Chief Executive subsequently created a new division called the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority within its executive branch. ANCA is headed at a senior level by a Director of Service, who is supported by a core executive team and specialist service providers.
The independence of ANCA is secured in Section 3 of the 2019 Act, which makes it clear that in performing the functions of the competent authority, the Chief Executive and any employee are carrying out an executive function and shall not be subject to the direction of any other person (including the elected members of FCC). The 2019 Act provides that there is independence in decision making (Section 3), in funding (Section 5) and that this is supported by specific provisions ensuring transparency throughout the process (Section 9).
In relation to the levy, local authorities have a wide range of statutory based regulatory and enforcement functions. These relate to both their environment and planning roles and sit alongside their rate collection and property tax setting functions.
It is not reasonable to assert that the exercise of regulatory roles by local authorities might be in some way compromised by their sources of funding, and it is not unusual for regulatory bodies to be funded by the regulated entity in the form of a levy or charge on that entity.
Finally, in relation to noise monitoring. The noise abatement procedures in place in Ireland are fully consistent with the requirements of the Environmental Noise Directive and EU Regulation 598/2014, which together establish the common European framework for the assessment and management of aircraft noise.
Dublin Airport’s procedures operate within this framework and are therefore in full alignment with the standard European procedures.
Dublin Airport is required to monitor aircraft noise around the airport and in communities in line with its responsibilities under the Dublin Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 and as required by Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA).
ANCA monitors the aircraft noise climate around Dublin Airport and every year, ANCA carries out an assessment of the effectiveness of the noise management measures at the airport and publishes a report on the findings on its website.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (274)
Ged Nash
Ceist:274. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport to confirm through the Road Safety Authority the number of driving tests that have taken place to date at the recently opened Drogheda driving test centre; the pass rate; and his plans to expand the number of testers at the centre. [68423/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for all aspects of the National Driver Testing Service. Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
I am pleased that as of end June, the full sanctioned complement of 200 driver testers are employed by the RSA, which is a significant increase on the 151 testers available at the beginning of 2025 and a doubling of permanent posts since June 2022.
The Deputy may wish to note that detailed statistics on the National Driver Testing Service, by county and test centre, are made available on the CSO website on a monthly basis and can be accessed via the following link: https://data.cso.ie/product/rsadts.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (275)
Emer Currie
Ceist:275. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport for an update on correspondence (details supplied). [68421/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
With regard to you and your constituents' specific questions regarding specific details of temporary access arrangements, and the alternative plan suggested, this is a matter for the NTA and I have forwarded your questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (276)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:276. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport the statutory basis on which the outcome of a review of the competent authority's performance under section 3(9)(a) of the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 will inform consideration of the future planning framework for Dublin Airport. [68420/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 requires the appointment of a person to review the performance of the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) within seven years of the Act's enactment. The first such statutory review is currently underway.
The review is focused on ANCA's performance of its functions under the 2019 Act as the competent authority responsible for the management of aircraft noise around Dublin Airport. It is not, in itself, a review of the planning framework for Dublin Airport.
The findings of the review will help inform broader consideration of the appropriate future planning framework for Dublin Airport, including the interaction between aircraft noise regulation and the planning process. In this context, noise mitigation at Dublin Airport is already subject to extensive regulatory oversight, and the 2019 Act also introduced consequential amendments to the Planning and Development Act 2000 to provide for planning applications relating to airport development to be processed through the general planning system.
Accordingly, while section 3 of the 2019 Act provides the statutory basis for the review itself, there is no specific statutory provision requiring that its outcome determine or direct future planning policy. Rather, the findings of the review will help inform wider policy and regulatory considerations relating to Dublin Airport.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (277)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:277. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport to identify, by name and instrument, the "standard European procedures" with which his Department states that Dublin Airport's procedures are in full alignment. [68410/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Dublin Airport's aircraft noise management arrangements are based on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Balanced Approach and operate within the framework established by Regulation (EU) No. 598/2014 on the introduction of noise-related operating restrictions at Union airports. As the Deputy will be aware, the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 established an independent aircraft noise regulatory regime in Ireland and provides for the implementation of Regulation 598/2014 through the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA).
The noise abatement procedures in place at Dublin Airport are consistent with the requirements of Regulation 598/2014 and the broader European environmental noise framework. Within this framework, Dublin Airport employs a range of internationally recognised noise mitigation measures, including Noise Preferential Routes (NPRs), Noise Abatement Departure Procedures (NADPs), Continuous Descent Operations (CDO), Continuous Climb Operations (CCO) and preferential runway use. Together, these measures are designed to minimise the impact of aircraft noise on surrounding communities while maintaining the safe and efficient operation of the airport.
Accordingly, Dublin Airport's aircraft noise procedures are fully aligned with established European and international best practice.
Legislative Measures
Ceisteanna (278)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:278. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport his response to recommendation 9 of the Joint Committee on Transport's report on the pre-legislative scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026 (details supplied); if his Department maintains that the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 provides a wholly independent process in accordance with that Regulation; and, if recommended restructuring is not to be undertaken, the reasons the French model is considered unsuitable for adoption in the State. [68426/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In response to recommendation 9 of the Joint Committee on Transport's report on the pre-legislative scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026, the Committee was advised that under the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019, EU Regulation 598/2014 has been implemented in full, and I am satisfied that the Aircraft Noise Competent Authority (ANCA) fully meets the functionally separated requirements of the EU Regulation.
Furthermore, ANCA, whilst functionally independent, is part of Fingal Country Council, carrying out an executive function. This organisational structure is not unusual in Ireland, where local authorities can often have a wide range of statutory-based regulatory functions and enforcement roles. Further, it is not unusual for a regulatory body to be funded by an entity it is responsible for regulating, in the form of a levy or charge on that entity.
Notwithstanding that position, in line with the requirement set out in section 3 of the 2019 Act, a statutory review of the performance by ANCA of its functions as the competent authority is underway and independent consultants have been appointed to undertake this role. The outcome of this review will inform the broader consideration of the appropriate future planning framework for Dublin Airport, including the interaction between aircraft noise regulation and the planning process.
Noise Pollution
Ceisteanna (279)
Gillian Toole
Ceist:279. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department maintains that noise abatement procedures in Ireland are fully consistent with Regulation (EU) No 598/2014 having regard to Commission Decision (EU) 2026/836 of 10 February 2026; and whether Ireland has yet informed the European Commission of its intentions under Article 1(2) of that decision, which requires it to do so before introducing those operating restrictions, and if not, the point in the current process it intends to. [68414/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019 provides a wholly independent aircraft noise regulation process in accordance with EU Regulation 598/2014.
Noise abatement procedures in place in Ireland are fully consistent with the requirements of the Environmental Noise Directive and EU Regulation 598/2014, which together establish the common European framework for the assessment and management of aircraft noise.
Dublin Airport’s procedures operate within this framework and are therefore in full alignment with the standard European procedures.
With regard to the Deputy’s specific queries in relation to An Coimisiún Pleanála decision of July 2025 and the process followed in reaching this decision, this is a matter for An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) as the appeals body.
On the 8th of August 2025, ACP notified the EU Commission of the operating restrictions set out in its July 2025 decision, as required under Article 8 of Regulation (EU) 598/2014, and the EU Commission subsequently undertook an assessment of the process followed by ACP in its decision.
On the 10th of February 2026, following completion of its assessment, the EU Commission issued a notification advising that the process used by ACP for the proposed introduction of operating restrictions at Dublin Airport did not fully follow the Balanced Approach process, as set out in Regulation (EU) 598/2014.
The Balanced Approach involves consideration of a range of measures, such as reduction of noise at source, effective land-use planning and management, and noise abatement operational procedures, before implementing any noise-related operating restrictions at an airport.
In line with the provisions of Regulation (EU) 598/2014 and the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Act 2019, as the independent competent authority for this matter on appeal, it is up to ACP to determine the most appropriate next steps.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (280)
Sean Fleming
Ceist:280. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport to contact the people involved who approved a 15% in public transport to reconsider the decision and to reverse this increase in view of the impact this is having on the cost of living and the inevitable situation where more people will be forced to go back into cars on the road because of the cost of public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [68464/26]
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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
On 3rd September 2026, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced changes to the national fare structure for PSO services, effective from January 2027. These changes are the first major revision since 2018 forming part of the NTA’s National Fare Strategy. While adult fares will increase, many child fares will be reduced and young adult fares will remain discounted at 50%, helping to improve affordability for families and young people. The Free Travel Scheme, which is run separately by the Department for Social Protection, will continue for everyone eligible.
The adjustments to fares are required to help offset the cost increases in recent years, improve fare revenue recovery and ensure the sustainability of the PSO funding while ensuring public transport is affordable and accessible for commuters.
The additional revenue generated through this determination together with continued Exchequer investment, will help the NTA manage rising operating costs, improve capacity and reliability on existing services, and continue the rollout of new services. This includes investment in BusConnects in Dublin, Cork and other cities, the completion of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Programme, and continued development of commuter rail services to increase the connectivity outside our major cities and towns. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational enhancements, such as increased frequency or capacity improvements, where possible.
Additionally, as Minister for Transport, I secured a record €940m public service obligation (PSO) funding for 2026, a 43% uplift on 2025, to ensure the consolidation of the service improvements made in recent years, and in preparation for further planned expansion and enhancements.
The NTA has identified approximately 140 new service initiatives and capacity enhancements as part of its 2027 budget submission to the Department of Transport. Subject to the outcome of the annual estimates process, this represents the biggest enhancement of services in many years.
Public transport requires this ongoing investment to maintain, improve and expand services. Fare revenue helps fund these measures, making it important to balance affordability with inflationary increases. The proposed fare changes support the Government's commitment to continued network growth, service enhancements and climate objectives by funding future improvements, while keeping public transport competitive and affordable.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's request to the NTA for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Traffic Management
Ceisteanna (281)
Grace Boland
Ceist:281. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the National Safety Camera Strategy and the rollout of additional traffic enforcement cameras; the timeline for delivery of the camera enforcement programme being developed by the National Transport Authority with An Garda Síochána and Transport Infrastructure Ireland; the status of the procurement of a Camera Enforcement Subject Matter Expert; and the expected commencement date for the operation of new camera based enforcement measures. [68469/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Camera based enforcement, like all enforcement of road traffic offences, is primarily the responsibility of An Garda Síochána. To assist An Garda Síochána in this work, the National Safety Camera Strategy was developed and published on the 29th of April of this year. The Strategy aligns with Programme for Government commitments to expand the use of safety cameras across the road network and also delivers on part one of Action 6 of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy Phase 2 Action Plan 2025 - 2027.
The Strategy provides the framework for the increased deployment of cameras across the network, in both urban and rural locations, to assist with the enforcement of a wide range of road traffic offences. It focuses on speeding, red light running, and bus lane infringements, with flexibility for the enforcement of other types of offence in future.
A Camera Enforcement Oversight Group has been established to deliver the Strategy, chaired by the CEO of the National Transport Authority (NTA) and comprising senior leaders from An Garda Síochána, NTA, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Road Safety Authority, the Courts Service and the Local Authority sector. The Oversight Group has met twice, on the 16th of June and the 5th of August and I expect a progress update to be presented at the next Road Safety Leadership Group meeting.
In relation to the status of the procurement of a Camera Enforcement Subject Matter Expert I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the National Transport Authority for a direct response.
Legislative Measures
Ceisteanna (282)
Seán Kyne
Ceist:282. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an anticipated timeline for the progression of the National Vehicle and Driver File, Road Traffic and Roads Bill 2026; and when he expects the Bill to be enacted. [68484/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Vehicle and Driver File, Road Traffic and Roads Bill 2026 passed Second Stage in the Dáil on 17 September 2026. A request for approval to draft and move amendments at Committee Stage in the Dáil will be submitted to Government shortly. Progression through the Houses thereafter is subject to Oireachtas scheduling.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (283)
Michael Cahill
Ceist:283. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport to provide a detailed progress report on connecting the train station and bus station in Killarney, County Kerry; and will he make a statement on the matter. [68231/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network and stations on the network, including any proposals to provide a link between the train and bus stations in Killarney, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. Iarnród Éireann has also previously considered interchange between the stations at the request of the National Transport Authority.
In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Vehicle Registration Tax
Ceisteanna (284)
Roderic O'Gorman
Ceist:284. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether local authorities can issue fines for failure to display a tax disc. [68514/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that traffic wardens operating under the remit of Local Authorities can issue fines for failure to display a tax disc.
Section 5 of the Roads Act 1920 provides that a motor tax disc must be fixed and exhibited on the vehicle in respect of which it is issued. Section 73 of the Finance Act 1976 provides that non-display of a motor tax disc is an offence.
Under the Local Authorities (Traffic Wardens) Act 1975 traffic wardens can impose fines for non-display of a motor tax disc.