Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:241. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport to improve public transport access for wheelchair users (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14894/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraPublic Transport
Ceisteanna (241)
Freagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure as well as the provision of an accessible, integrated public transport system for all users. The NTA works with the relevant public transport companies, as appropriate.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities, including the provision of accessible public transport services for people with disabilities in county Kerry, I have forwarded your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (242)
Michael Ring
Ceist:242. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport how the roll-out of charging infrastructure can be accelerated, along with the upgrading of the ESB grid to accommodate them, particularly in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14952/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Home charging is and will remain the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer. Home charging also assists in the overall management of the national grid by reducing the impact of reliance on higher powered and peak-time charging. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home, however for those unable to do so, a growing public network of charging will provide a reliable alternative.
The EV Charging infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025 sets out the government’s ambition regarding the delivery of a public EV charging network to support up to 195,000 electric cars and vans by the middle of the decade. Arising from this strategy, the National En-Route EV Charging Network Plan, published for consultation last year, makes provision for banks of EV chargers every 60 KM on the TEN-T motorway and national primary road network – which will support the connectivity of remote areas. This plan also includes provision of high-power charge points every 30 km on the national secondary roads by 2025.
In addition, ZEVI is currently finalising the Regional and Local EV infrastructure Network Plan. This plan will provide a pathway for the accelerated delivery of regional and local networks of public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at destination and neighbourhood areas, in line with both national and European ambitions for cleaner transportation. This plan ensures a cohesive and standardised approach. It will be led by local authorities, working together to develop regional strategies, promoting a unified and efficient rollout of charging infrastructure, facilitating nationwide integration of EVs. The plan will be published for public consultation in May 2024
ZEVI will support local authorities including direct funding of projects and resources needed to deliver the accelerated and coordinated roll out of EV infrastructure.
At a European level, the Alternative Fuels Regulation (AFIR) requires Ireland to treble the power available on its public charging system for cars by 2025, with a further trebling by 2030.
Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland continues to work closely with ESB Networks, a key member of the ZEVI Assurance Board and Progress Group. This partnership is integral to ZEVI's mission, as ESB Networks offers invaluable support, provides constructive challenges, and offers expert advice on ZEVI activities.
A range of new charging infrastructure schemes are being developed which will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging. These bespoke schemes are in advanced stages of development and delivery including:
• A new €21million grant scheme (ZEVI EV Charging Infrastructure LDV En-Route Grant Scheme) targeting the motorway/dual carriageway network was announced earlier this year, driving the installation of high-power recharging pools every 60 kilometres. The grant aims to stimulate the private sector to provide new recharging pools by the end of 2025.
• A Shared Island funded Sports Club scheme, which will install up to 200 fast chargers
• An EU Just Transition Fund Supported Scheme, which is planned to install 60-80 chargers
• Future schemes, which will be rolled out over the coming year, will continue to target other parts of the road network as well as recharging at destinations and in neighbourhoods.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (243)
Michael Ring
Ceist:243. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport what assistance is available from his Department to progress the roll-out of high speed EV chargers at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14953/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) is leading on the delivery of Ireland’s ambitious targets under the Climate Action Plan to have an expected 30% of our private car fleet switched to electric by 2030.
In January 2023, ZEVI launched the EV Charging infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025, which sets out the government’s ambition regarding the delivery of a public EV charging network to support up to 195,000 electric cars and vans by the middle of the decade.
Arising from this strategy, the National En-Route EV Charging Network Plan makes provision for banks of EV chargers every 60 KM on the TEN-T motorway and national primary road network – which will support the connectivity of remote areas. This plan also includes provision of high-power charge points every 30 km on the national secondary roads by 2025.
In addition, ZEVI is currently finalising the Regional and Local EV infrastructure Network Plan. This plan will provide a pathway for the accelerated delivery of regional and local networks of public electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at destination and neighbourhood areas, in line with both national and European ambitions for cleaner transportation. This plan ensures a cohesive and standardised approach. It will be led by local authorities, working together to develop regional strategies, promoting a unified and efficient rollout of charging infrastructure, facilitating nationwide integration of EVs. The plan will be published for public consultation in May 2024.
ZEVI will support local authorities including direct funding of projects and resources needed to deliver the accelerated and coordinated roll out of EV infrastructure.
A range of new charging infrastructure schemes are being developed which will help provide another critical link in the overall network for public charging. These bespoke schemes are in advanced stages of development and delivery including:
• A new €21million grant scheme (ZEVI EV Charging Infrastructure LDV En-Route Grant Scheme) targeting the motorway/dual carriageway network, driving the installation of high-power recharging pools with 1200kW power output every 60 kilometres, with at least four 150kW recharging points in each pool. The grant aims to stimulate the private sector to provide new recharging pools by the end of 2025.
• A shared island funded Sports Club scheme, which will install up to 200 fast chargers
• An EU Just Transition Fund Supported Scheme, which is planned to install 60-80 chargers
• Future schemes, which will be rolled out over the coming year, will continue to target other parts of the road network as well as recharging at destinations and in neighbourhoods.
Air Services
Ceisteanna (244)
Cathal Crowe
Ceist:244. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport for an update on a Public Service Obligation application in respect of a proposed Shannon Airport to Amsterdam Schiphol route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15010/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I would like to thank the Deputy for his continued interest in this matter. As you are aware Shannon Airport has made a submission to my Department requesting the establishment of a Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service to provide EU Hub Connectivity from Shannon Airport.
As previously advised, while the establishment of air services is a commercial matter between airports, airlines and other market actors, the Regional Airports Programme provides for a PSO air services scheme. Over the past 10 years Ireland has significantly rationalised PSO air services, with only one such route now supported under this scheme between Donegal and Dublin, ensuring connectivity to this remote region.
Given that it would be a significant shift to expand Government policy for the support of PSO air services beyond that of support on domestic routes, the potential impact of such a policy, not only on the Exchequer but also on similar routes operating on a commercial basis from other regional airports, needs consideration.
The potential impacts of any PSO policy change on existing routes from Shannon Airport also need to be considered. This is of relevance to the commercial service to London Heathrow as well as the new commercial service to Paris Charles de Gaulle which commenced in September 2023, both of which provide European Hub connectivity from Shannon Airport to onward international destinations. It is imperative that any intervention in this market does not distort competition.
The impact of the substantial Exchequer support totalling almost €47 million provided to Shannon Airport since 2021 also needs to be taken into account. This funding has supported the growth in connectivity at the airport, with passenger traffic in 2023 14% above 2019 levels (the last comparable period prior to COVID-19).
I can assure you that this matter has been given careful consideration as part of the mid-term review of the Regional Airports Programme. My Department carried out a public consultation process last year to inform this review and officials have submitted their assessment to me which I am now considering. I am currently engaging with colleagues across Government in reaching a conclusion on this review.
Road Safety
Ceisteanna (245, 246)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:245. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will fund an independent audit of footpath safety and cost to repair and restore footpaths in a local authority (details supplied). [15080/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSeán Sherlock
Ceist:246. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will fund an independent audit of footpath safety and cost to repair and restore footpaths in a local authority (details supplied). [15081/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 245 and 246 together.
Investment in Active Travel infrastructure, including footpaths, has increased significantly in recent years, with around €290 million allocated to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for such projects this year alone. While the majority of this funding is dedicated to the development and construction of new walking and cycling Active Travel infrastructure, just under €40 million was earmarked this year for protection and renewal of existing Active Travel footpaths and cycle lanes. The 2024 allocations to each local authority, including Cork City and Cork County Councils, can be found on the NTA website.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local road network. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is a matter for the local authority.
While my Department provides grant support for road maintenance and renewal programmes under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme it does not have a specific grant programme for the restoration and repair of footpaths or related works; however, local authorities have the option to fund these types of works from certain road grant programmes. In addition, local authorities are required to carry out road safety audits and road user audits for certain State funded regional and local road works; these audits identify potential hazards to all road users, with particular attention being paid to the needs of vulnerable road users.
Question No. 246 answered with Question No. 245.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (247)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:247. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if he will clarify the situation with railway lines being reused and repurposed (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15114/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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 issue raised by the Deputy in relation to the sale of concrete railway tracks is a matter for Irish Rail. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Irish Rail for direct response to the Deputy.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Bus Services
Ceisteanna (248)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:248. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport to report on the performance of the 105 bus service in January-March 2024; his plans to improve this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15160/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
As such, the issue raised by the Deputy in relation to the performance for the Bus Éireann Route 109 Drogheda-Blanchardstown service for the months January-March 2024; and plans to improve this service, are operational matters for Bus Éireann.
I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's questions to Bus Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (249)
Éamon Ó Cuív
Ceist:249. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport the reason that the NDLS office in Galway was closed on Saturday, 23 March 2024, despite appointments having been made for that date; the arrangements made to facilitate the customers let down, with other appointments; the frequency that scheduled appointments did not take place at NDLS offices around the country in the past year because offices were not open at the appointed times; the steps he intends taking to ensure that NDLS provides a better service to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15238/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Licence Service and the information requested is held by that agency. I have therefore referred the question to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.
I am not aware of any inadequacy with the service to the public.
Bus Services
Ceisteanna (250)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Ceist:250. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport for a status update in respect of a bus stop (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15250/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
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.
Bus Services
Ceisteanna (251)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Ceist:251. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport for a status update in respect of a bus stop (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15251/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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.
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.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (252)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Ceist:252. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport if he has any plans to take a public transport audit in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15254/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including TFI Local Link services and the rollout of services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for public transport services in County Clare, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (253)
Violet-Anne Wynne
Ceist:253. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the issues that people with disabilities face when it comes to using public transport and space for their mobility device; if he is aware that some disability spaces on public transport are not big enough and that mobility devices are being damaged trying to fit in the space provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15255/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for promoting the development of an integrated, accessible public transport network.
The NTA works with the relevant public transport operators, who have responsibility for day to day operational issues, to progressively make public transport accessible.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for accessible public transport, in conjunction with the transport operators as appropriate, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (254)
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:254. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update with any engagement his Department has had with Louth County Council in respect of progressing phase 2 of the port access northern cross route in Drogheda; if he supports this vital infrastructure; if he will commit to fast-tracking and/or assisting any discussion to allow for its progression, including any funding required to complete an over/under passage of the main Dublin to Belfast rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15281/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the existing network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.Louth County Council is the statutory planning and road authority in its functional area. It is, therefore, a matter for Louth County Council to consider options regarding the development of the proposed Port Access Northern Cross Route (PANCR) scheme in Drogheda.It should be noted that there is a limited budget available for projects under the Regional and Local Road Strategic Grant Programme and that, under the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code), a Project/Programme Outline Document (previously Strategic Assessment Report (SAR)) is required for all projects which are estimated to cost in excess of €15 million (previously €10 million). To date a Preliminary Appraisal has been received by my Department from Louth County Council in connection with a further phase of the PANCR scheme. This is currently under consideration by my officials. Louth County Council was not given an allocation in 2024 for further phases of the PANCR scheme.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (255)
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:255. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport his views on the proposal by the National Transport Authority to terminate the Wexford to Dublin Intercity rail link in either Greystones or Wicklow town and to require passengers to disembark there to access commuter DART services; if he accepts that this substantial down grading of a main intercity link is totally unacceptable, if he will contact the NTA and Irish Rail on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15282/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
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, and for decisions in relation to these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.The issue raised by the Deputy is a matter for Irish Rail in conjunction with the NTA. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Irish Rail and the NTA for direct response to the Deputy.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive replies within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (256)
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:256. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if the REPowerEU funding of €56 million that will be allocated to the electrification works at Drogheda train station to facilitate the charging of battery electric trains, has been drawn down yet from the European Union; if so, when; if he will seek a detailed description on what the funding will provide in Drogheda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15287/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy may be aware, REPowerEU is the EU’s plan to rapidly reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels, boost the independence and security of the Union’s energy supply and accelerate the green transition. REPowerEU is financed via the Recovery and Resilience Facility. This is a performance-based instrument and payment is contingent on the verified delivery of milestones and targets. Ireland's REPowerEU Programme, which will form part of our overall National Recovery and Resilience Programme, is valued at €240m.
The Government approved the REPowerEU allocations in February 2024. This decision enabled the finalisation of Ireland’s informal process with the European Commission. Ireland’s REPowerEU Chapter was formally submitted to the European Commission on 22 March 2024 for final assessment, approval and adoption processes.
The installation of the battery charging infrastructure at Drogheda train station, as included in Ireland’s REPowerEU Chapter, will allow for battery-electric rail services to operate from Dublin city centre to/from Drogheda by mid-2026. The draw down of EU funding will be based on the achievement of various milestones and targets. The delivery of all the infrastructure in Drogheda to cater for the battery-electric train carriages will include the charging infrastructure, stabling requirements, signalling changes modifications to the Drogheda depot.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (257)
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:257. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will seek an update from the CEO of the Road Safety Authority on the progress/lack of progress on the long-awaited driving test centre for Drogheda; what sites have been considered or investigated; the expected timelines for the opening of the centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15294/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for Driver Testing Service and the provision of test centres. As such, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the RSA for direct, detailed reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Road Network
Ceisteanna (258)
Brendan Griffin
Ceist:258. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport if Transport Infrastructure Ireland will address an issue affecting a homeowner on the N86 in County Kerry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15295/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Waterways Issues
Ceisteanna (259)
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:259. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will intervene and insist that Louth County Council, as a responsible party, that action is taken to remove the hebble dredge from the River Boyne in Drogheda following its original sinking in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15314/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As confirmed in previous responses to parliamentary questions, the vessel in question is located in the Port of Drogheda, which Port is owned and overseen by Louth County Council since 2017. As also previously advised, any queries regarding the projected dates of removal of the ship from the Port of Drogheda should be directed to Louth County Council, or to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, as the parent Department for the county council.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (260)
John Paul Phelan
Ceist:260. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Transport for an update on plans to deploy the use of battery technology to support the installation of EV charging infrastructure along the comprehensive road network in response to delays in grid connections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15316/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The deployment of battery technology for EV charging Infrastructure needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis. There are advantages and disadvantages to using battery technology and at this time, it has not been used on a widespread basis across the UK and Europe.
There are potential cases identified where this technology could be used as follows:
• where there are electrical capacity restrictions in remote areas and where a charging need has been identified
• at locations where significant capacity is required and battery backup and storage will reduce the size of the grid connection needed
There is also developing potential for use of battery backup technology to “shave” the peak off the grid.
Other considerations regarding this technology include:
• Cost analysis of battery backup technology as currently the capital costs associated with the technology are significantly higher in some cases
• Utilisation and noise in relation to the optimum location for the battery backup technology
The National Road Network EV Charging Plan which will be published in May 2024 and the Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan which will also be published for public consultation in May. Both plans allow for innovative solutions such as battery backup technology to be considered when designing optimum solutions for EV Infrastructure.
Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) is currently looking at options for pilot projects to install battery backup technology to monitor performance in remote areas, which may have seasonal peaks and warrant the need for a DC charger on a smaller connection.