Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 December 2021
52. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will issue an order for HEPA filters to be used on all public transport while Covid-19 infection rates are at high levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62358/21]
View answer87. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will issue an order for public transport to operate at 50% capacity while Covid-19 infection rates are at high levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62357/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 87 together.
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 operation of public transport. That is the responsibility of the National Transport Authority in conjunction with the relevant public transport operators.
The continued operation of public transport services has been a priority throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The Government is committed to ensuring that essential transport services, and passengers utilising these services, are protected and supported.
The Chief Medical Officer and the Health Service Executive (HSE) are responsible for the issuing of guidelines in relation to public health and these advices apply across all modes of public transport. Public transport operators have been advised of, and are guided by, public health instructions issued by the HSE and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre in relation to COVID-19.
As part of the 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 had steadily continued to increase week-on-week, with the return of schools, third level education, and the return of more employees to the workplace. The National Transport Authority (NTA) continue to liaise with transport operators to monitor passenger trends and any challenges that may arise as transport returns to full capacity.
A number of measures have been implemented by public transport operators 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
In addition, notices have been applied within vehicles where windows can be opened, to encourage passengers to leave them open for ventilation purposes.
The NTA continues to engage with public transport operators regarding the safe operating of services during the pandemic. In light of the NTA's responsibilities in this area, I have also referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
