Written Answers Nos. 101-125
101. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Transport his plans to review speed limits for rural and urban roads particularly in view of recent road fatalities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44083/21]
View answerAs Minister, I am very concerned to ensure that there are appropriate speed limits in place. This is an essential matter of public safety, as speed is not only a major cause of collisions, but also a determining factor in how serious those collisions are.
By way of addressing this issue, I am currently looking at options to carry out a review of the framework for the setting of speed limits in Ireland. This will include the 30-km/h speed limit zones.
The Road Traffic Act 2004 sets out default speed limits for the Road network. Local authorities have the discretion to decide on varying these limits through Special Speed Limit bye-laws for roads within their administrative area. The making of such bye-laws is a reserved function of the elected members of the council.
The enforcement of speed limits is a matter for an Garda Síochána.
Special Speed Limits are speed limits that are specified in bye-laws prepared by Local Authority Engineers and made by (adopted by the vote of) the Elected Members of Local Authorities. Section 9 of the Road Traffic Act 2004 (amended by Section 86 of the Road Traffic Act 2010) sets out the range of Special Speed Limits that may be applied through bye-laws.
To assist local authorities in the application of Special Speed Limits, my Department’s updated Guidelines for Setting and Managing Speed Limits in Ireland (2015) is available on www.speedlimits.ie website. This applies to all roads and provides guidelines to local authorities as to how to decide appropriate speed limits. In addition, and in an effort to improve the appropriateness of speed limits, my Department has developed an appeals process which would allow for individuals to appeal a specific speed limit. This is expected to be live in Q4 this year.
102. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport the progress in making the LocalLink service more accessible to persons with disabilities, including expanding the geographical and temporal span of services and ensuring all services are fully wheelchair accessible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44129/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) which has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, as well as the development of an integrated, accessible public transport network. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme which operates under the TFI Local Link brand.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities in this matter, 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.
103. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport the average wait times to complete a theory test and driving test at the Castlebar and Ballina NDLS centres, County Mayo; and the steps his Department and the RSA are taking to address this backlog. [43995/21]
View answerSpecific details on waiting times for driver tests and theory tests are held by the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred this part of the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within 10 days.
Due to suspension of driver testing services in the first 2020 lockdown, along with the health protocols since resumption of service and the further curtailing of services during subsequent level 5 restrictions, a significant backlog has developed.
Since last October, the driver testing service has been prioritising essential workers. Since May 2021, the Road Safety Authority has been returning to delivering tests for all customers, while continuing to prioritise critical frontline workers. This means, in the interest of fairness, the RSA targeted test appointments to those waiting longest who are ready and eligible to take the test.
The service continues to operate under restrictions in the interest of making it safe while there is an ongoing presence of Covid.
In order to deal with the backlog, the Road Safety Authority received sanction to hire 40 new temporary testers, in addition to 36 they were sanctioned to retain or rehire in 2020. These new testers have completed their training and are now conducting live tests since July 2021. Sanction has also been granted to recruit a further 40.
The Road Safety Authority is also looking to increase the number of tests to 7 per tester per day from late September 2021, subject to compliance with health protocols.
The gradual re-opening of in-person driver theory test centres commenced from 8 June. The RSA and its service provider has put plans in place to significantly increase capacity. The number of tests provided has increased from an average pre Covid19 level of 15,000 to over 25,000 appointments monthly. Almost 50,000 tests were provided during the month of August.
The RSA have also been working to extend its online theory test. The new offering will see up to 10,000 online tests available per month. The online service will become more widely available later this year.
It is disappointing that 1 in 6 customers are failing to show up for their Theory Test. The RSA would ask any customer unable to attend their test to let the service know in good time so the appointment can be re-allocated.
104. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport the status of the trial use of hydrogen powered buses in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43993/21]
View answerEvery sector has to significantly step up climate action if we are to meet our national climate action objectives. The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 commits us to a 51% reduction in our overall greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 at the latest, and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. As Minister for Transport, I am committed to putting my sector on the trajectory required to achieve our targets; this involves, in part, deciding on which technologies can help accelerate our transition to a low-carbon and sustainable mobility system.
In 2019 Ireland committed to no longer procuring diesel-only buses for our urban public fleet; since then an array of different alternatively-fuelled technologies have been assessed to determine their suitability for providing a reliable and greener bus service. While electric vehicles are currently the most mature and proven alternative fuel to decarbonise public transport, hydrogen is emerging as a promising technology especially for longer journeys.
As such, and to adequately trial hydrogen, the NTA recently procured three double-deck buses. These vehicles are currently being deployed on Bus Éireann commuter route 105X. My Department also included one of these buses in the Department’s Low-Emission Bus Trial - which is a standardised test that has been employed to compare a range of alternative bus fuels and technologies under real driving conditions. This trial follows the testing of a single-deck hydrogen bus late last year. Findings from Phase 1 of the Bus Trial were published in December 2019, and I expect the final set of findings, including the results for the tests of both the single and double deck hydrogen buses, to be published in Q4 2021; thus allowing my Department to assess the feasibility of hydrogen as a fuel for public bus transport in Ireland.
Investment priorities in public transport must be delivered to meet the targets set out in the Climate Action Plan and to achieve our climate objectives. The investment priorities represent a decisive shift towards the achievement of a decarbonised transport system demonstrating the Government’s unequivocal commitment to securing a carbon-neutral future.
105. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport when the ongoing review of the Navan rail line will be completed; if he has received a cost estimation of reopening the rail line; the steps that will be taken in the next 24 months on this proposed project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44093/21]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware the issue of a rail connection to Navan is being re-examined as part of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) review of the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area. The Strategy as we all know is a multi-modal, twenty year transport strategy for the region and one that must be reflected in relevant land-use strategies across the GDA.
As part of their overall review, the NTA has engaged external expertise to specifically re-examine the feasibility of a Navan Rail Line and provide an evidence based assessment of the proposals to inform the review of the overall Strategy.
I understand that the draft Strategy will be published in Q4 along with all of the background papers that informed its development. The publication of the documentation by the NTA will coincide with the launch of a public consultation process on the revised Strategy and I would encourage all interested parties to participate in that consultation process.
I would note of course that delivery of projects and programmes under any revised Strategy over the medium term will be determined by the allocations received as part of the ongoing review of the National Development Plan.
106. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding and status of the initial introduction of phase one of BusConnects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43724/21]
View answer119. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding and status of the initial introduction of BusConnects phase one, which was introduced in north-east Dublin during the summer. [43876/21]
View answer127. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Transport if he has instructed the NTA to engage with local residents and business owners in Kimmage in relation to the BusConnects plans following a recent Dublin City Council motion and signed letter from locals and elected representatives. [43478/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 106, 119 and 127 together.
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 planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including BusConnects.
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.
107. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on plans to install new bus shelters in County Cork in the next year. [44130/21]
View answerAs 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 planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stops and shelters.
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.
108. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to commission a feasibility study that would access the prospect of delivering rail infrastructure through County Monaghan. [44066/21]
View answerWhile I have no plans to commission a specific feasibility study in relation to rail in Monaghan, I have announced an all-island Strategic Rail Review and am delighted to confirm that the Review has commenced in recent weeks and that both Minister Nichola Mallon MLA and I jointly met the consultants last week.
This Review will strategically review the rail network on the island of Ireland in relation to improving sustainable connectivity between the major cities, enhancing regional accessibility and balanced regional development and also consider rail connectivity to our international gateways, with the latter considering the role of rail freight.
Of interest to the Deputy is that the Review will also consider the potential scope for improved rail services along the various existing, or future potential, corridors of the network and that scope will include the potential afforded by disused and closed lines. As part of the Review there will be a public consultation process which I would encourage all to engage in.
109. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the challenges in the bus and haulage sectors in terms of rising costs and difficulty to recruit staff; the measures he plans to take to address these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44095/21]
View answerThe Covid pandemic has impacted transport operators across all transport modes and has also had a huge impact across the labour market. Both bus and haulage operators have been impacted.
Rising costs are an issue across the economy. On 9 September the CSO published the CPI figures for August 2021. Prices on average, as measured by the CPI, were 2.8% higher in August 2021 compared with August 2020. This is the largest annual change in prices in almost 10 years.
The largest increase in the year could be seen in Transport (+10.2%) mainly caused by higher prices for petrol, diesel and motor cars, an increase in airfares and a rise in the cost of services in respect of personal transport equipment.
Recruitment difficulties in the bus sector have only recently been highlighted to my Department as some operators have commenced campaigns to recruit new drivers.
I am well aware of the growing problem of driver shortages in the road haulage industry and a lot is already being done to help address the problem. In July I asked the National Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group, which is chaired by my Department, to examine the issue and to make recommendations as a matter of urgency. All relevant Departments and agencies, as well as the haulage and logistics sector, are represented on the Group. I expect to receive their report by the end of the month.
Current actions and potential future actions to tackle the issue include:
- promoting the profession and the training available in order to increase the numbers qualifying as HGV drivers in Ireland,
- improving the profession as a fulfilling life long career,
- increasing the number of non-EU/EEA countries with which Ireland has entered into HGV driver licence exchange agreements, to allow drivers from these countries to apply for Irish employment permits,
- helping Irish employers to recruit drivers from overseas.
110. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if there are plans to legislate for mandatory speed reduced school zones or slow zones in residential estates and built-up areas for vulnerable users nationwide separate from local authority bye-laws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43910/21]
View answerWhile the Road Traffic Act 2004 sets default speed limits for various categories of roads, elected members of local authorities have statutory responsibility for making Special Speed Limit bye-laws for roads in their area - with, in the case of national roads, the consent of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). The making of such bye-laws is a reserved function of elected members.
The Road Traffic Act 2004 establishes default speed limits that apply to defined categories of roads and which can only be changed by county and city councils through the making of special speed limit bye-laws. Section 9 of that Act sets out the range of special speed limits that may be set by local authorities through such bye-laws. To assist local authorities in the application of Special Speed Limits, my Department's Guidelines for Setting and Managing Speed Limits in Ireland provide detailed guidance on the application of Special Speed Limits outside of schools and is available to all local authorities.
Under the Road Traffic Acts, a Special Speed Limit may include a periodic speed limit which can be designed to apply and operate outside schools at specified periods, for example when children are arriving at, or leaving a school during term time.
111. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if he has had any engagement with front-line maintenance workers at Dublin Airport regarding attempts by the Dublin Airport Authority to outsource front-line maintenance work at the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44115/21]
View answerI would like to thank the Deputy for her question.
In the first instance, the matters being referred to by the Deputy are industrial relations matters and therefore, a matter for the Company, the employees and the trade unions concerned.
COVID-19 has had an unprecedented adverse impact on daa’s operations. Passenger numbers at Dublin and Cork airports fell from 35.5m passengers in 2019 to 7.9m passengers in 2020, reflecting a 78% reduction. The outcome of this unprecedented reduction in passenger numbers is evidenced in daa's end 2020 Annual Report and Financial Statements which reflects losses of some €187m in 2020, compared to a profit of €150m in 2019.
In response, the Company embarked on a restructuring of the business and the introduction of new work practices. In this regard, it has reached agreements on new ways of working with some 93% of staff (c. 2,100 employees). Where daa has not reached agreement with unions and staff in relation to the introduction of these new work practices, the Company has engaged with the industrial relations institutions of the State, including the Labour Court.
I have been informed that following engagement with the Labour Court, some Unions and staff have not accepted the Labour Court recommendation regarding daa’s introduction of new work practices. As a result, the Company advised staff in these areas that it was commencing engagement in relation to the provision of front-line maintenance services by a third-party provider.
I understand that this may result in the transfer of staff and their activities to a third party. However, no final decision had been made in this regard. I am also advised that daa continues to seek engagement with the trade unions in relation to this matter.
112. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 50 of 17 June 2021, the progress made in relation to the identification of suitable sites for park and ride in Galway; when this service will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43906/21]
View answerAs 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 planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects and associated Park & Ride facilities in Galway.
As I previously stated, the successful development of bus-based park and ride in Galway city is linked to the roll-out of BusConnects Galway, otherwise developing park-and-ride sites without developing improved bus infrastructure and services will simply fail.
The NTA provided a substantive answer to the Deputy's query of 17th June and I have forwarded this latest question to them for direct reply in relation to any update they may have on the BusConnects Galway project and associated Park & Ride facilites since then. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
113. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the steps being made to ensure the urgent investment needed to prepare Rosslare Europort as the most strategically preferred port for the construction of an off-shore wind farm construction base; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44126/21]
View answerRosslare Europort is unique among the State-owned ports, as it is not a commercial company operating under the Harbours Acts but is instead operated on a commercial basis as a division of Iarnród Éireann with all investments funded from port revenues.
It is a Tier 2 Port under National Ports Policy and as the second largest RoRo port in the State has an important role in ensuring the continued movement of freight on and off the island of Ireland. Located on the east coast where the first Offshore Renewable Wind developments will progress, Rosslare Europort has the potential to service a range of windfarms in the Irish Sea. The Department is aware of a number of ports also examining the business potential of Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE).
The Department of Transport has been exploring options for the facilitation of ORE by the ports, including possible funding under the European Recovery and Resilience Facility. It was decided this would not be one of the projects going forward to Europe as part of Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan due to prioritization of other more mature projects that are in line with EU timelines to maximise Ireland’s overall funding.
However, the Department of Transport has successfully negotiated changes to the Connecting Europe Funding (CEF) criteria to allow EU funding for basic port infrastructure towards improving connectivity and for funding of port infrastructure for Offshore Wind Energy in the next 2021-2023 CEF Work Programme.
This will allow ports on the TEN-T Network, including Rosslare Europort, to apply for CEF funding for the development of ports´ facilities related to offshore wind farms.
The next call for applications will be published this month (September 2021). It is a competitive process and further application calls are expected in September 2022 and September 2023.
Successful applicants can obtain significant funding of up to 50% of eligible costs for studies and up 30% of infrastructure works costs.
Iarnród Éireann has met with Minister Ryan and outlined the feasibility for Rosslare Europort to service the emerging offshore wind sector in Ireland and the scale of the investment in Infrastructure needed, between €50m to €225m, depending on the option.
Department officials also met with Iarnród Éireann and Rosslare Europort recently to explore the potential for CEF funding for the Port, including for Offshore Wind Energy facilities. Rosslare Europort have advised the Department that they are progressing their plans for the development of ORE facilities at the port and that they will be applying for CEF funding under the CEF opening later this month.
As part of its ongoing assessment on options to ensure the provision of ORE facilities at ports , the Department, in conjunction with the IMDO, are also meeting with other ports and administrations to establish best practice in this regard in Europe. Cross departmental engagement between key Government Departments is ongoing in addition to direct engagement with the ORE sector and other relevant stakeholders to explore mechanisms for investment in ORE required port infrastructure. It is expected that this assessment will be finalised shortly.
The Department of Transport will continue to work with Rosslare Port as it progresses its plans for port infrastructure for serving the Offshore Wind sector while it also provides the necessary infrastructure to maintain RoRo freight activity at the port.
It is vital that Ireland can achieve its carbon emission reduction targets while exploiting the many opportunities for balanced regional development and the creation of jobs. It intended that our ports will be in position to facilitate the development of the Offshore Wind Energy sector around Ireland, contributing towards the Programme for Government target of 5 GW of offshore wind energy by 2030.
114. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the way in which his Department is improving rural transport services under the Our Rural Future - Rural Development Policy 2021-2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38321/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
From a policy perspective, I have been clear that there is a need for a fundamental change in the nature of transport in Ireland and the Programme for Government, 'Our Shared Future', commits to making public transport and active travel better and more accessible, including in rural areas.
In addition, "Our Rural Future - Rural Development Policy 2021-2025", contains a number of commitments to improve public transport services in rural areas and pilot new transport initiatives for people of all ages and abilities living in rural areas.
My Department has been undertaking a review of the Sustainable Mobility Policy, which incorporates a review of public transport in rural areas. I intend to develop a new policy framework for the next 10 years that can provide a strategic backdrop to the increased investment planned by this Government across the sustainable mobility programme. The new policy statement will be informed by the review of the previous policy framework (known as Smarter Travel), submissions received during my Department's consultation process and the views and recommendations of other relevant stakeholders. It will provide a platform to advance the ambitions of the Programme for Government in the area of sustainable mobility, including in rural areas.
Our committments in both the Programme for Government and "Our Rural Future" in relation to public transport in rural areas will be progressed in the context of that new policy statement.
Among the measures we will prioritise is the NTA’s “Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan” to ensure settlements over a certain size can connect to the national public transport system, expanding TFI Local Link services and prioritising public transport projects that enhance regional and rural connectivity.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has responsibility for local and rural transport, including the management of Rural Transport Programme (RTP) which operates under the TFI Local Link brand.
The NTA is developing its "Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan", which has the objective of providing better connections between villages and towns through enhanced and new local routes. These local routes will be integrated with an enhanced regional network connecting cities and regional centres nationwide. Connecting Ireland is being developed by identifying and measuring the extent of gaps in connectivity between settlements, outside of Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford; and also through developing a set of proposals to address those gaps, by enhancing existing services and introducing new ones.
In developing the Connecting Ireland initiative, the NTA undertook workshops with local authorities nationally. The NTA will shortly be undertaking a public consultation on the proposals emanating from Connecting Ireland. The consultation will provide all interested parties and the general public with an opportunity to review and comment on the proposals.
115. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport his plans to support the taxi industry in the time ahead in view of the fact that work volumes remain significantly reduced related to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44096/21]
View answerI recognise that the SPSV industry has been very badly affected by COVID-19 which brought about an almost complete collapse in passenger demand for taxi and other SPSV services. I understand that as many as 70% of SPSV drivers have availed of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment which, as the Deputy will be aware, has been extended to February 2022. Self-employed SPSV operators can continue to claim the PUP and earn up to €960 in a given 8-week period, net of expenses.
Based on figures from the National Transport Authority (NTA) I am pleased to advise that passenger demand for SPSV services is now rising as we progress through the next and final phase of the Government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic: COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting. NTA figures also show a steady increase in the proportion of taxi drivers working over the last few months: from 36% of all drivers working in January 2021 to 62% working in June 2021. I expect these trends to continue as restrictions are lifted in line with public health advice.
Support for SPSV operators continues to be available through a series of measures designed to support the sector, with a view to addressing statutory costs faced by operators which cannot be deferred. Standard licence renewal fees for SPSVs were waived in 2021 and I can confirm that they will be waived again in 2022 at an estimated cost of €3 million. The NTA has put in place schemes to refund the Motor Tax paid by SPSV operators in the period 1 September 2021 to 31 August 2022 and to waive NCT fees for the same period. Further details on these schemes are available on the NTA website. The NTA has also extended age limits for SPSVs to 2022.
Recognisng that the replacement of a vehicle is the single largest cost faced by any SPSV operator, and in view of my commitment to support the transition of the SPSV fleet towards zero/low-emission vehicles, I increased the funding available to the Electric SPSV (eSPSV) grant scheme for 2021 to €15 million, up from €1 million. This scheme can be used in conjunction with COVID-19 investment and liquidity measures, such as the COVID-19 Credit Guarantee Scheme. There has been a strong interest in the revised scheme, which has received over 1,100 application. To date 254 vehicles have been licensed that were purchased under the scheme at a cost of just over €3 million.
Furthermore, Microfinance Ireland announced on 9 September that a loan finance up to €25,000 is now available to support the eSPSV Grant Scheme, as many SPSV owners are finding it difficult to secure finance from banks and other commercial lending providers. Further information on this facility is available from Microfinance Ireland.
116. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport his plans to help small rural communities move to more environmentally sustainable modes of transport in cases in which on-demand transport may not be economically viable. [44234/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) which 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 management of the Rural Transport Programme which operates under the Local Link brand.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities in this matter, 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.
117. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport the progress that has been made in relation to projects associated with the school active travel programme in County Mayo; and the level of investment and future proposals to support these future initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44235/21]
View answerIn March, I was delighted to launch the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme which will support Active Travel infrastructure for selected schools around the country. The Programme will see approximately €15 million of funding this year to support walking, scooting and cycling to primary and post-primary schools and aims to create safer walking and cycling routes within communities, alleviate congestion at the school gates and increase the number of students who walk or cycle to school by providing the necessary infrastructure.
All schools were eligible to apply to the programme and information was circulated from the Departments of Education and Transport to schools nationwide. By the deadline of 16th April, 931 applications had been received from schools in every county in Ireland. 170 schools were notified on 21st June that they have been selected for inclusion in the first round of the SRTS Programme, including 7 schools in Mayo. The schools selected were assessed against a range of criteria including school type, location and the school’s commitment to sustainable travel.
Schools that have applied this year and who have not been included in the first round of funding will not be required to reapply as they will come into the programme on a rolling basis. There are no plans for an additional call for schools to join the SRTS programme at this time.
The Safe Routes to School Programme is funded by my Department through the National Transport Authority (NTA) and An Taisce's Green-Schools is co-ordinating the programme. Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have forwarded your correspondence to them for a more detailed reply.
118. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he has had examined the role of his Department in the case of a person (details supplied); if he has had discussions with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine regarding the use the European fisheries funds to seek compensation for the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44050/21]
View answerBy way of background to the case of the fishing vessel “MFV Mary Kate” it is helpful to set out the safety regime for fishing vessels in Ireland. The fleet is divided into three classes for the regulation of safety. These are the greater than 24m vessels which are regulated by means of an EU Directive since 1999. The next category are the 15m to 24m and these are not regulated at EU or international level and it is a matter for individual states to regulate these. In 2007 Ireland progressively introduced a safety regime for such vessels. The remaining sector are fishing vessel in the less then 15m category and these have been regulated since 2004 under national provisions.
The “MFV Mary Kate” was a fishing vessel in the 15m to 24 length category and was required to undergo its safety survey for compliance with the new safety regime in 2009. It was determined that it did not comply with the requirements specifically with the stability requirements and was not issued with a safety certificate. The owner then needed to propose how they would bring their vessel into compliance. The owner decided to lengthen the vessel by the inserting a new section into the vessel. This brought the vessel into the next length category of over 24m and the safety regime of that class applied. Following this alteration, the vessel was then found to comply with the stability requirements. The vessel was subsequently sold to another owner on the Irish flag, has since been renamed and has been operating since this time under the new name and ownership.
In 2013 the MSO brought a paper to the EU Regulatory Committee on maritime safety matters, the COSS committee. This paper was submitted to raise awareness among other EU Member States as well as the European Commission of the “MFV Mary Kate” case and possible safety implications for similar vessels which may be operating on the registers of other EU MS.
In relation to the European Fisheries Fund my Department has no role or function in relation to the funding of the fishing sector in Ireland. The MSO of my Department does not become involved with the financial arrangements for individual vessels in order to maintain the necessary separation of commercial and safety considerations. On this basis it would not be appropriate for me to contact the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine on this matter.
121. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport if he will examine the decision to cease the 20 and x20 Bus Éireann route from Galway to Dublin in view of the importance of this route as a link to Portiuncula Hospital especially for older persons living in nearby rural towns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44118/21]
View answer132. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the engagement between his Department and the National Transport Authority with regard to the provision of replacement Bus Éireann route 20 services for passengers using free travel passes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44068/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 132 together.
As Minister for Transport, I am responsible for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in day-to-day operational matters.
While most public transport in Ireland comprises the bus and rail services funded through the National Transport Authority's (NTA) public service obligation (PSO) programme, there is part of the national public transport system that comprises non-subvented bus services, which are run on a commercial basis by bus and coach businesses of varying sizes throughout the country. Bus Éireann operates a substantial PSO business under contract with the NTA, providing subvented bus services outside Dublin, and in regional and rural locations throughout the country. Bus Éireann also has a separate, commercially-run business, "Expressway", which operates a number of inter-regional bus routes in competition with other, private, commercial operators in the licenced bus market.
The Covid-19 health emergency has had a profound impact on the public transport sector due to the fall in passenger numbers and associated drop in fare revenues. In this regard, the Government agreed substantial increases to the PSO budget to ensure the continuation of PSO services throughout 2020 and 2021. In addition, the Government has recognised the impact of the pandemic on the licenced bus sector - which normally operates on a commercial basis without public subvention but which, during the Covid crisis, was in a situation where its operations were no longer commercially viable, owing to the impact of Covid-19 on passenger numbers and the associated drop in fare revenue.
Therefore, in June 2020 the Government decided to introduce new, temporary financial supports for certain licensed services provided by commercial bus operators to ensure the continued operation of these essential services. Among the commercially-operated routes that have qualified for support under the temporary scheme are most, but not all, of Bus Éireann's "Expressway" services. Notwithstanding these supports, though, the Covid situation has still had a profound impact on the company's financial situation, that the Board of the company is obliged to address. Following extensive analysis and work within the company, the decision to consolidate its Expressway network was taken by the Board of Bus Éireann in September 2020. The decision impacts four routes - the X1 Dublin/Belfast service (which ceased operations in November 2020), the X12 Dublin/Limerick service (which ceased operations on 30/01/2021), the 20/X20 Dublin/Galway service (which ceased operations on 28/07/2021) and the X8 Dublin/Cork service (which ceased operations on 04/09/2021).
In circumstances where a commercial operator ceases operating a specific route, the NTA undertakes an examination to determine whether, with the discontinuation of the commercial service, it is necessary for a replacement PSO service to be introduced to ensure no loss of connectivity to the travelling public. This process includes an assessment of the level of demand for public transport services in the affected area, an evaluation of whether existing PSO services can be reconfigured to meet any shortfall, or whether it is necessary to competitively tender for the provision of services. In light of the decision by Bus Éireann to cease operating the X20 route, the NTA completed a detailed assessment of the X20 corridor and have determined that despite Expressway’s withdrawal, sufficient connectivity is provided by the remaining operators and the public service obligation is adequately met by other rail and bus services, thereby negating the need for any further intervention on the route.
Given the NTA's statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, I have also forwarded the Deputy's question to the Authority for reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
122. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Transport the status of the introduction of legislation for the use of e-scooters and associated vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43933/21]
View answerMy intention is to legislate for e-scooters, in accordance with the Programme for Government. Department officials have drafted the necessary changes to primary legislation as part of the forthcoming Road Traffic Bill. The Bill has completed pre-legislative scrutiny and is expected to come before the Oireachtas shortly. As with all legislation, it is not possible to provide a definitive timeframe.
When the Bill is enacted, it will give the Minister for Transport powers to make regulations for the use of e-scooters and other powered personal transporters.
123. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the advice sought and given on the safety measures and mitigations required for public transport workers and users in the return of services to 100 % capacity; if he will publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43810/21]
View answer136. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the discussions and consultations and their outcomes with public transport workers and their representatives in advance of the direction to return to 100% capacity on services; when such discussions and consultations took place; the public health advice regarding same for the workers and users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43809/21]
View answer138. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his engagements with transport workers and trade unions regarding the move to full capacity on public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44061/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 123, 136 and 138 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for the development of public transport policy and its funding. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day management and operational aspects of public transport. That is the responsibility of the National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with public transport operators such as Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann, Go-Ahead and Luas.
As part of the recent further easing of a range of Covid-19 restrictions, the Government decided that from 01/09/2021 public transport could return to operating at 100% capacity. This decision was taken as demand for public transport services has steadily continued to increase week-on-week, with the return of schools and third level education. It is also expected that demand for public transport will increase further with the expected return of more employees to the workplace over the coming weeks.
The Chief Medical Officer and the HSE are responsible for the issuing of guidelines in relation to public health and these advices apply across all modes of public transport. The NTA has a coordinating role and have maintained close links with all contracted operators in respect of the response to Covid-19. The NTA has stated that they will continue to liaise with transport operators to monitor passenger trends and any challenges that may arise as transport returns to full capacity. Passengers are being asked to avoid peak times if possible and the wearing of face coverings remains mandatory. A number of measures have been implemented by public transport operators with the support of the NTA to ensure the safe operation of services, including:
- enhanced cleaning regimes for vehicles and stations;
- distribution of personal protective equipment to public transport staff;
- distribution of hand sanitizer on vehicles and at stations; and
- display of public health advice and guidelines on vehicles and in stations
The NTA continues to have regular engagement with the various public transport operators in relation to the impact of Covid-19 on the sector. In relation to direct engagement with transport workers and representative groups - that is a matter for the individual operators concerned.
124. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progress of the investment in greenway projects arising from the carbon tax fund of €4.5million that was allocated for 26 projects. [43875/21]
View answerI was delighted that one of my first tasks as Minister for Transport was to approve funding for 26 Greenway projects in July 2020. These projects are all pre-construction projects and range from feasibility studies to environmental screening to support for planning applications. These projects will provide us with a pipeline of projects that will be considered for further support as they progress through the project management and decision gates before being considered for construction. I was particularly pleased that there is a wide geographical spread of projects included, from Donegal in the North-West around all our border counties to the South-West and across the Midlands and to the East. There are also a number of projects funded that will extend our existing Greenways and link Greenways to each other, contributing in future years to a network of Greenways and cycling infrastructure around the country.
Progress has been slower than anticipated, unfortunately, due to the impact of the Pandemic and issues with staff resourcing within our local authorities that is being addressed with support from my Department. Just under half the total amount allocated will have been expended by the end of this year (€2.29m). The remainder will be spent during 2022.
When the projects complete and, subject to the criteria laid out in the Public Spending Code, they may progress to further pre-construction phases, or in some cases to construction itself. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) are taking over project management of Greenways from my Department from September 20th and they will examine each of the projects and assess their suitability for progress.
TII are also developing a National Cycle Network and this is due to be finalised by the end of 2022 and that work will feed into TII's determination of which projects should be considered for funding for construction. I am pleased that we have so many potential Greenways being developed around the country and that will contribute to the creation of a National Cycle Network. The delays to date will have no material impact in terms of construction funding as that will not be decided upon until the end of 2022 when the National Cycle Network has been identified.
If the Deputy has queries about specific Greenways I will task TII with providing detailed answers to her queries.
125. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if he will facilitate the recruitment of additional driving testers to address the existing backlog. [44065/21]
View answerIn order to deal with the driving test backlog, the Road Safety Authority received sanction to hire 40 new temporary testers, in addition to 36 they were sanctioned to retain or rehire in 2020. These new testers have completed their training and are now conducting live tests since July 2021. Sanction has also been granted to recruit a further 40. At this point I do not believe that there is a shortage of testers.
Driving testers carried out 8 tests each per day before the pandemic. This was reduced to 5 on reopening in summer of 2020, and later increased to 6. The RSA hopes to be able to increase this in the near future to 7, subject to health circumstances. This will make a significant impact on the RSA's efforts to address backlogs.
