Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

273. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the additional improvements to services that will occur in 2026 for Bus Éireann PSO routes arising from Budget 2026. [60971/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I wish to reassure the Deputy that improving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government. The National Transport Authority (NTA) plays a central role in achieving this, as they have statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators. NTA and the Operators are in continuous dialogue regarding operational needs, subject to funding and/or resource availability.

As Minister for Transport, my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, including Bus Éireann. The 2026 PSO funding allocation of €940 million represents a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from 2025. This reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that public transport services can continue to operate reliably and sustainably in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs.

This allocation will also allow for the continued delivery of targeted fare initiatives, including the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and the Young Adult Card for those aged 19–25, as part of the NTA’s National Fares Strategy. These measures help ensure that public transport remains accessible and affordable for families, students, and young workers across the country.

In parallel, investment continues to support the rollout of planned improvements within the existing network. Work is progressing on major strategic infrastructure projects such as DART+, Metrolink, and Cork Commuter Rail, which remain critical to increasing the capacity and resilience of the public transport system over the longer term.

In addition, a further €31 million has been secured for rural transport in 2026 – a 38% increase on last year’s funding. This ensures the continued delivery of vital services across rural Ireland, to meet demand in communities that depend on these services most.