Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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297. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will safeguard trees in Shankill village that are under threat from BusConnects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1849/25]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State, and is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA).

New bus services in Dublin are already being delivered, with the first five phases of the Network Redesign rolled out in recent years. I understand that Phase 6a of the BusConnects Network Redesign roll-out, including the local L routes in Wicklow and the E-Spine connecting north Dublin to Wicklow, is scheduled to launch on 26 January 2025. The Network Redesign for the entire network will continue in the coming years.

Overall, BusConnects will transform bus services in our cities, allowing passengers to travel more conveniently, quickly and sustainably, and I look forward to its full implementation.

The NTA has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects. Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's specific question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.