Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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294. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the identified park and ride sites for Galway will be operational; the progress to-date on getting them up and running; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51864/25]

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) is leading the development and rollout of strategic park and ride sites nation-wide through the Park and Ride Development Office.

The Park and Ride Development Office has developed a Park and Ride Strategy for Galway. The Park and Ride Strategy envisages the development of up to five bus-based strategic Park and Ride sites, three for initial development and two for future development, and the expansion of rail-based Park and Ride site at Oranmore station.

Work by the Park and Ride Development Office is ongoing in relation to proposed bus-based park and ride sites on the N6, at the junction 19 Oranmore exit, and the N83 just north of Claregalway. Planning for enhanced rail infrastructure to facilitate the expansion of rail-based park and ride at Oranmore station is separately being undertaken by Iarnród Éireann in conjunction with the NTA.

Overall, I welcome these developments and look forward to the projects progressing, as the provision of park and ride at strategic locations can help to reduce the distances travelled by car, with a related reduction in carbon emissions and congestion.

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