Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The National Transport Authority has advised my Department that an accessibility upgrade project of Parnell Place bus station in Cork, which includes some station enhancements, is planned under the public transport retrofit accessibility programme. This programme funds the retrofitting of older public transport infrastructure and facilities, to ensure access for everyone, including disabled and older people. According to the NTA the preferred option identified in Cork includes improved layout, signage, lighting, bathroom upgrades, internal ramps and steps, as well as work at entrance doors. The need for a changing places facility has also been identified.

A reconfiguration of existing staff accommodation is required to facilitate the proposed works within the confines of the existing building. The project is estimated to cost €5.3 million, and subject to available funding, is scheduled for construction in 2026.

More broadly, Cork is growing and needs a new bus network that works for a developing city. BusConnects Cork is a key part of the Government’s policies to improve public transport and address climate change in Cork. Its aim is to deliver an enhanced bus system that is better for the city, its people and the environment. It is designed to provide a better, more reliable and more efficient bus service in addition to providing safe cycling facilities along key routes.

Various upgrades and improvements are due to take place, such as building a network of new sustainable transport corridors, redesigning the bus network, introducing a state-of-the-art ticketing system, transitioning to a new zero emissions bus fleet, new park-and-ride sites in key locations and new bus stops and shelters with better signage and information.

I am sure the Deputy will agree that these changes through BusConnects Cork are positive developments that will overhaul the current public transport system in the Cork metropolitan area.

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