Cathy Bennett (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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157. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will outline the role of the National Transport Authority regarding Bus Éireann expressway routes; any service obligations under which such routes operate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4533/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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 statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. Further, the NTA is responsible for the licensing both public and commercial operators, including Bus Éireann's Expressway services.

As the NTA is the licensing authority for the commercial bus sector and sets the service obligations, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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158. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to consider the unpredictable weather conditions experienced by residents and visitors to County Kerry; to expedite the provision of bus shelters across the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4554/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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 responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stops/shelters nationally.

However there is a commitment under the Programme for Government to ensure that public transport operators provide safe and accessible access for all passengers and a commitment to work with local authorities and national bodies to improve public transport options and infrastructure in relation to key tourism spots.

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.