John Connolly (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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403. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the budget for public transport operations provided to the National Transport Authority for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39901/26]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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Investment in public transport nationwide is an all time high. The 2026-2030 National Development Plan outlines a €24.3 billion investment in Ireland's transport sector, with a focus on enhancing public transport and active travel. This marks a transformative moment for Ireland’s transport system, delivering sustainable and accessible travel options to connect us all. Additionally, as secured in Budget 2026, the PSO programme and associated services are being supported by an unprecedented increase in funding of €940 million - a 43% increase compared to last year.

The focus for 2026 is on stabilising and strengthening the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. The NTA will continue to prioritise improvements, within its €940 million allocation.

With over 363.5 million journeys undertaken in 2025, supported by the PSO programme, Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services.

At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing workforce shortages, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers. This challenge is affecting some service performance across the network. However, operators are actively engaging with the NTA and the Department to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints.

In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system. The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs. Subsequently decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.

I can assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to delivering an accessible, reliable and affordable public transport system for all our citizens.