Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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276. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the Bus Éireann national routes will be allowed increased capacity on buses (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31642/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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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 securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.

On 10 May 2021, the capacity restrictions on public transport were increased from 25% to 50% of onboard capacity (sitting and standing) across all services (including Bus Éireann), under updated measures announced by Government. Public transport has also now largely returned to normal scheduling.

Government recently agreed that the ending of the 50% capacity restriction on public transport will be considered for August, subject to the epidemiological situation at the time.

My Department and the NTA continue to be guided by public health advice and are closely monitoring public transport demand.

Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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277. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he and or the NTA have conducted a review of traffic flow and or volume on Bray main street and side streets in the context of the BusConnects project; if his attention has been drawn to chronic traffic congestion in the town; his plans to address same in advance of the BusConnects project; and if additional bus lanes will be installed in the town in view of the fact that they are currently fragmented. [31689/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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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 in the Greater Dublin Area, including BusConnects.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.