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Monday, 11 Sep 2023

Written Answers Nos. 307-335

Driver Test

Questions (307, 308, 309, 310)

Colm Burke

Question:

307. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport the measures he intends on taking to address the 37-week wait in accessing a driving test in Cork city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38038/23]

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Colm Burke

Question:

308. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport if staffing levels will be increased in the driving test centres in Cork to reduce the backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38039/23]

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Colm Burke

Question:

309. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport when he expects that the average waiting time for an invitation to a driving test will be reduced back down to ten-weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38040/23]

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Colm Burke

Question:

310. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport what action is being taken to increase the number of staff employed at driving test centres in order to reduce the waiting time backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38041/23]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 307 to 310, inclusive, together.

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the operation of the National Driving Test Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the information requested relating to Driving Test centres in Cork is held by that organisation. I therefore referred those specific questions to the RSA for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.

On the broader issue of delays, the service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand, which has increased by 28% compared with 2021 figures. In response to these pressures, the Authority reviewed the capacity of the driver testing service earlier this year and, following a request for additional resources, my Department gave approval for the recruitment of up to 75 additional driver testers. This brings the total number of sanctioned driver tester posts to just over 200.

This recruitment campaign is well underway and is being managed by the Authority. However, a campaign of this size takes time. It is expected that once these additional driver testers are trained and deployed, the backlog for driver testing services will be actively managed such that agreed service levels resume and wait times begin to decline. I have been advised by the Authority that the first newly recruited testers should be deployed in late September.

The additional driver testers will be deployed across the driver testing service with a focus on the geographical areas with the longest waiting times and highest demand for tests.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
Question No. 308 answered with Question No. 307.
Question No. 309 answered with Question No. 307.
Question No. 310 answered with Question No. 307.

Driver Test

Questions (311)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

311. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport when a person (details supplied) will be allocated an appointment for a driving test who is waiting over six months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38051/23]

View answer

Written answers

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driving Test service. Consequently, neither I nor my Department have the power to intervene in individual cases.

On the broader issue of delays, the service has been under significant pressure to meet unprecedented demand, which has increased by 28% compared with 2021 figures. In response to these pressures, the Authority reviewed the capacity of the driver testing service earlier this year and, following a request for additional resources, my department gave approval for the recruitment of up to 75 additional driver testers. This brings the total number of sanctioned driver tester posts to just over 200.

This recruitment is well underway and being managed by the Authority. However, a recruitment campaign of this size takes time. It is expected that once these additional driver testers are trained and deployed, the backlog for driver testing services will be actively managed such that agreed service levels resume and wait times begin to decline. I have been advised by the Authority that the first newly recruited testers should be deployed in late September.

The additional driver testers will be deployed across the driver testing service with a focus on the geographical areas with the longest waiting times and highest demand for tests.

Road Projects

Questions (312)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

312. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline if any engagement has taken place between TII and Louth and or Meath County Councils in respect of the closure of the Obelisk Bridge for much needed redevelopment works, considering the expected ten month traffic impact this will have on the already over congested town of Drogheda; if any further consideration has been given by the Government to provide a temporary waiver on the Drogheda M1 slip tolls that would alleviate the said traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38067/23]

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Written answers

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.

In relation to the M1 slip tolls, as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Therefore, matters relating to the day to day operations regarding national roads, including toll roads are within the remit of TII. More specifically, the statutory power to levy tolls, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into agreements with private investors are vested in TII under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended). Moreover, the contracts for the privately-operated toll schemes are commercial agreements between TII and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) concessionaires concerned.

Noting the above position, I have referred the 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

Bus Services

Questions (313)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

313. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if the local link bus could do a stop/pick-up at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38115/23]

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Written answers

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 roll-out of services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities for public transport services in County Kerry, 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

National Car Test

Questions (314)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

314. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport to consider a proposal (details supplied) to relieve pressures on the NCT service. [38117/23]

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Written answers

Under European Directive 2014/45/EU on periodic roadworthiness testing, Ireland, like all Member States, must comply with the minimum specified intervals for carrying out such inspections. This is given effect in Irish law by the Road Traffic (National Car Test) Regulations 2017 (SI 415/2017), as amended.

Regulation 3(2) of the 2017 Regulations provides that the initial test due date for a vehicle is determined by its registration date and subsequent test due dates automatically fall on anniversaries of the registration date. Any certificate issued for that vehicle will be valid up to the test due date after the certificate is issued and is not automatically issued for 24 months, or 12 months for vehicles over 10 years old, from the date of testing.

Permitting NCT certificates to be extended beyond the minimum test due dates would place the State in breach of our obligations under EU law and may affect road safety, should the vehicle in question be unsafe to drive. There are no current plans to amend this legislation.

Taxi Regulations

Questions (315)

Seán Canney

Question:

315. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Transport if he will allow the NTA to distinguish between a taxi and hackney in relation to rear windows being darkened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38151/23]

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Written answers

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including vehicle standards for SPSVs, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016.

I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV industry and accordingly, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51

Coast Guard Service

Questions (316)

Kathleen Funchion

Question:

316. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Transport to provide a commitment that staff employed by a company (details supplied) who provide helicopter search and rescue cover to the Irish Coast Guard for the south-east region based out of Waterford Airport will transfer to the company that has purchased same; if it will be ensured that the pay terms and conditions of pilots and crew who operate the aircraft on behalf of the Irish Coast Guard are not eroded or altered by the decision of the Government to change the contract provider; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38178/23]

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Written answers

The contract for the provision of next generation Coast Guard aviation services was signed with Bristow Ireland Limited on 11 August 2023. The contract provides for the operation of four helicopter bases all on 24/7 duty, with the addition of a Coast Guard Fixed Wing aircraft service for the first time.

The Department and the Irish Coast Guard will facilitate, support, and expects to see, an orderly and seamless transfer of operations between both contractors (CHCI and Bristow Ireland). The transition will be a gradual process, and the new aviation service will be introduced on a phased basis over the next 24 months.

I fully recognise the professionalism and dedication of all personnel engaged in the provision of this essential State service. The specialist expertise of the CHCI personnel is highly valued and the experience gained over many years in providing IRCG SAR and other aviation services will continue to be a valued and sought after resource. The nature of the skills, training and experience required to fulfil Search and Rescue roles is quite specialised and there is a limited pool of suitably qualified personnel in Ireland and internationally available to fill these posts. Ensuring continued safe, efficient, and effective aviation services for the Irish Coast Guard is the overarching priority for all concerned. To that end, it is imperative that existing and future staff be fully appraised of employment and advancement opportunities available under the new service, so as to reduce any uncertainty or distraction.

Bristow Ireland has given a commitment to my Department that the Company supports the principles of TUPE and that it will fully engage with the recognised Trade Unions – Fórsa and Unite- as part of the transition and mobilisation phase of the new contract. The company has stated that it is fully committed to establishing pathways for personnel currently servicing the existing SAR contract to join Bristow Ireland on comparable salary structures and they will actively work to develop a positive and professional relationship with the Trade Unions to ensure that this commitment is fully honoured. Bristow Ireland will also engage directly with the management team of the incumbent contractor, CHCI, in the near future with a view to ensuring a seamless transition to the new IRCG aviation service.

National Car Test

Questions (317, 318, 325, 339, 361)

Paul Kehoe

Question:

317. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport to reverse the decision of refusing cash payments for the NCT; if this change is breaching EU regulations that public entities that provide essential services to citizens can not apply restrictions or refuse cash payments without sufficient reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38189/23]

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Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

318. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport whether he was consulted, by the RSA or the company that has the franchise for the delivery of the State’s NCT car testing system, in relation to the proposed decision, announced recently, that it is intended by the service to eliminate the acceptance of payment by the public in the legal tender notes of the EU Central Bank; if so, his response to the consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38191/23]

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Mark Ward

Question:

325. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport if the decision by the Road Safety Authority to move to cashless payments for NCTs will be reconsidered; the options available to persons with digital literacy issues that are unable to pay online; the additional costs that these persons will incur if carrying out payment by postal order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38234/23]

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Brian Stanley

Question:

339. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider stopping the move by NCT centres to go cashless as this goes against having an inclusive society. [38368/23]

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Cormac Devlin

Question:

361. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Transport if he will take action to ensure the NCT service continues to accept cash from customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38490/23]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 317, 318, 325, 339 and 361 together.

I am aware of a proposal by the NCT operator to introduce a cashless service. My Department has advised the RSA that alternative payment options for NCT appointments must be made available, to ensure that all motorists, including those without access to electronic or card payment systems, can continue to pay for the service.

The RSA is currently in discussion with the NCT operator about payment systems. Any change to payment methods must be agreed with the RSA and as above, the Department will require that the NCT service will be able to be paid for using cash, within the terms of the contract in place. Payments will not be restricted to credit card or electronic payments. The Department will require that a cash pre- payment option may be used to pay for the NCT service if it moves to a pre-payment system.

The RSA has committed to keeping my Department informed of developments on this issue, as a matter of priority.

The operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I have referred the Deputy's queries to the Authority for direct 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
Question No. 318 answered with Question No. 317.

Road Projects

Questions (319)

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

319. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will respond regarding the actions that he and his Department have taken to date to offset the devastating impact the closure of the Obelisk Bridge will have on local persons and businesses in Drogheda (details supplied), notwithstanding that the project responsibilities lie with Louth and Meath County Councils; if he will take a lead role to find a solution to a situation that will essentially cause further congestion to an already congested town and impose significant additional costs to people at a time of a cost of living crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38213/23]

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Written answers

In relation to national roads , as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy while the planning, design and implementation of individual road projects on national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the relevant local authority.

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.

My Department has provided funding to Louth County Council for essential rehabilitation works of the Obelisk Bridge in Drogheda. Implementation of the project and the associated traffic management measures are the responsibility of the Council.

Rail Network

Questions (320, 321, 322, 323, 324)

Alan Dillon

Question:

320. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport if will provide an update on the status of the EU tender that was placed by Iarnród Éireann in February 2022 for new railway freight wagons; the steps that have been taken to ensure that these wagons are acquired in a timely manner to support our export industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38222/23]

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Alan Dillon

Question:

321. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport considering Iarnród Éireann's aging fleet of railway freight wagons, which have been in operation for over 45 years, and the outdated braking technology of the current railway freight wagons, which restricts their maximum operating speed and contributes to congestion on heavily used single track rail lines, the measures he is taking to modernise the freight wagon fleet; the current timelines for replacing the existing fleet and improve the efficiency of rail freight transport; if the Government is providing the necessary funding for the replacement of these wagons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38223/23]

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Alan Dillon

Question:

322. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport given the anticipated growth in rail freight demand from Mayo export industries, if he will commit to investing in a larger fleet of railway freight wagons, beyond a like-for-like replacement of the existing fleet, to cater for the latent demand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38224/23]

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Alan Dillon

Question:

323. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport the progress that has been made in constructing the new rail freight terminal in Castlebar, and the expected completion date; how this new terminal will help to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by local industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38225/23]

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Alan Dillon

Question:

324. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Transport considering the potential impact on local industries in Castlebar and Mayo, and given the lengthy process of type testing and approval by the Rail Safety Authority for new freight wagons, the steps he is taking to expedite the acquisition and deployment of new, modern freight wagons for Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38226/23]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 320 to 324, inclusive, together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The operation, maintenance and renewal of the rail network, including the replacement of rail freight wagons and other issues mentioned by the Deputy, is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance.

In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please contact 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
Question No. 321 answered with Question No. 320.
Question No. 322 answered with Question No. 320.
Question No. 323 answered with Question No. 320.
Question No. 324 answered with Question No. 320.
Question No. 325 answered with Question No. 317.

Bus Éireann

Questions (326)

Pauline Tully

Question:

326. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Transport the top six Bus Éireann routes by passenger numbers in 2022 and the first seven months of 2023, in tabular form. [38239/23]

View answer

Written answers

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 top six Bus Éireann routes by passenger numbers in 2022 and the first seven months of 2023, in tabular form is an operational matter for Bus Éireann.

I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Driver Test

Questions (327)

Pauline Tully

Question:

327. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Transport the waiting times for category C1 vehicle driving tests at testing centres in counties Cavan and Monaghan, in tabular form. [38240/23]

View answer

Written answers

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the operation of the National Driving Test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and the information requested is held by that agency. I have referred the question to the RSA for direct reply on the specific issue raised. 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

Cycling Facilities

Questions (328)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

328. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport when it is anticipated the cycleway from Leixlip to Galway will be completed; the phases completed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38254/23]

View answer

Written answers

The Minister for Transport has responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. The planning, design and construction of individual Greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

The development of a dedicated inter-city route for cyclists and walkers from Dublin to Galway is a Government priority. The project is being funded by the Department of Transport and being progressed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, National Transport Authority and the relevant local authorities.

The National Transport Authority are working with Kildare County Council in developing a dedicated pedestrian and cyclist route along the Royal Canal from Maynooth to Clonsilla which will pass through Leixlip. Approximately 110km of the route from Maynooth to Athlone is located on an off-road cycleway or Greenway. Transport Infrastructure Ireland are working with the relevant local authorities in relation to the development of the Athlone to Galway section.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII and the NTA for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Bus Services

Questions (329)

Steven Matthews

Question:

329. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding bus lane enforcement cameras; if this is under review in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38267/23]

View answer

Written answers

As my Department is responsible for the drafting of Road Traffic legislation, I am happy to clarify the legal status of bus lane enforcement cameras. As the Deputy may be aware, Section 81 of the Road Traffic Act 2010 does in fact already provide for the use of cameras by the Gardaí to assist in the detection of certain offences under the Road Traffic Acts. These powers have already been successfully used by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), working in partnership with the Gardaí, with regard to speeding offences and it is open to other road authorities to use these powers on a similar basis for other offences. Indeed, the offences specified in Section 81 include those made under Section 35 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 which is the basis for the current Traffic and Parking Regulations covering, among other things, bus lane restrictions.

While legislation under the remit of my Department already permits the use of cameras for enforcing bus lane restrictions, the Department has no role in the actual installation of such cameras, as this remains the responsibility of the Gardaí, in partnership with the relevant stakeholders. In line with commitments set out under Actions 67 and 122 of the Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, my Department has asked the National Transport Authority to convene a cross-agency working group to examine various approaches to expediting the timely and efficient introduction of camera enforcement. I understand that this group has been meeting on a regular basis since May of this year, and I look forward to considering its formal recommendations in the coming months.

Motor Fuels

Questions (330)

Richard Bruton

Question:

330. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the breakdown in the use of biomethane for biofuels. [38272/23]

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Written answers

Biomethane is a biogas, often referred to as BioCNG, because it can be used with or as a substitute for fossil compressed natural gas (CNG). In transport, biomethane use is found mostly in the decarbonisation of heavy duty commercial CNG vehicle operation. It is understood that some fuel suppliers have recently started to supply BioCNG at a small number of refuelling stations, catering mainly to HDV CNG vehicles.

The supply of renewable energy in transport consumption generally is mandated in Ireland through the renewable transport fuel obligation (RTFO) on fuel suppliers. Biomethane used in transport which fulfils EU criteria for sustainability and GHG reduction is eligible for RTFO certificates, for each megajoule of renewable energy supplied, which can be counted against the obligation.

The National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) which administers the obligation, in its annual report 2022 sets out that approximately 1,105k Nm3 (0.04 PJ) of gaseous renewable transport fuel were placed on the market in 2022. This equates to almost 2 million equivalent litres of biomethane/bioCNG placed on the market; and represents less than 1% of renewables placed on the market under the renewable transport fuel obligation in 2022. The supply of biomethane in transport in 2022 was produced from either food waste, brown grease, animal manure, crude glycerine or belly grass (all wastes).

The updated Renewable Transport Fuel Policy Statement 2023-2025 published in June sets out the pathway to increase the mandate for renewable energy in transport through an annual RTFO rate increase, in order to achieve 2030 targets under the Climate Action Plan and EU Renewable Energy Directive. In 2023, renewable transport fuel regulations were introduced to allow the award by the NORA of additional RTFO certificates for biomethane, further incentivising its supply for use in transport.

Motor Fuels

Questions (331, 332)

Richard Bruton

Question:

331. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the current level of biofuel production. [38279/23]

View answer

Richard Bruton

Question:

332. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the projected level of biofuel production by 2030. [38280/23]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 331 and 332 together.

The Renewable Transport Fuel Policy sets out the pathway to the achievement of both Climate Action Plan targets and European obligations concerning sustainability and GHG reduction criteria while incentivising their supply. Since its establishment in 2010, the policy has been to increase renewable energy in transport by pursuing progressive increases in the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) on fuel suppliers, as provided for under Part 5A of the National Oil Reserves Agency Act 2007.

The trajectory of annual RTFO rate increases to 2030, as set out in the policy, is designed to achieve the CAP target of an E10 (10% Ethanol) and B20 (20% Biodiesel equivalent). This is to achieve 1.08MT CO2eq carbon reduction by 2030, representing a significant portion (almost 14%) of the planned transport sector decarbonisation by 2030.

In its 2022 Renewable Transport Fuel Annual Report the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA), which administers the RTFO, set out that approximately 307m litres (9.6 PJ) of liquid biofuel and 1,105k Nm3 (0.04 PJ) of gaseous biofuel were placed on the market. Approximately 18% of the feedstock for these renewables was sourced from Ireland which represents a 25% increase from 2021. Most of these feedstocks were also sourced from Europe (51%).

My Department published a Biofuels study report in 2022 which modelled the quantum of biofuel and related feedstock supply and production required to meet EU and Climate Action Plan targets. According to the study an estimated 72-78m litres of bioethanol and between 570-730m litres of biodiesel/HVO will be required for use in transport to meet demand by 2030. The Report concludes that both National and EU targets can be complied with by 2030 (under existing assumptions for renewable electricity) through meeting and possibly exceeding advanced biofuel targets.

The updated Renewable Transport Fuel Policy Statement 2023-2025 published in June sets out the pathway to increase the mandate for renewable energy in transport through an annual RTFO rate increase, in order to achieve 2030 targets under the Climate Action Plan and EU Renewable Energy Directive. In 2023, renewable transport fuel regulations were introduced to allow the award by the NORA of additional RTFO certificates for specified renewable transport fuels, where those fuels are used for specific purposes or means of transport, to incentivise their supply. This included additional certificates for FAME biodiesel, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), biomethane and renewable fuel of non-biological origin such as green hydrogen.

Question No. 332 answered with Question No. 331.

National Car Test

Questions (333, 366)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

333. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the details of any engagement with the RSA in relation to the decision to no longer accept cash in NCT centres in the coming months; the rationale for the decision; the way in which those who wish to pay in cash can do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38290/23]

View answer

Seán Canney

Question:

366. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider instructing the NCT to reverse their decision to go cashless only and to accept cash as a legal tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38548/23]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 333 and 366 together.

I am aware of a proposal by the NCT operator to introduce a cashless service. My Department has advised the RSA that alternative payment options for NCT appointments must be made available, to ensure that all motorists, including those without access to electronic or card payment systems, can continue to pay for the service.

The RSA is currently in discussion with the NCT operator about payment systems. Any change to payment methods must be agreed with the RSA and as above, the Department will require that the NCT service will be able to be paid for using cash, within the terms of the contract in place. Payments will not be restricted to credit card or electronic payments. The Department will require that a cash pre- payment option may be used to pay for the NCT service if it moves to a pre-payment system.

The RSA has committed to keeping my Department informed of developments on this issue, as a matter of priority.

The operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I have referred the Deputy's queries to the Authority for direct 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

Rail Network

Questions (334)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

334. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the measures that are being taken to review all Rail and Tram infrastructure to ensure transport hubs are adequately resourced and accessible for persons with disabilities. [38298/23]

View answer

Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding for public transport.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for developing an accessible, integrated and sustainable public transport network.

In light of the NTA's responsibility for progressively making public transport accessible, including rail and tram infrastructure, 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.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51

Taxi Regulations

Questions (335)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

335. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the number of full-time taxi enforcement officers employed by the National Transport Authority in each of the years 2022 and to date in 2023, in tabular form; if this number will be further increased; and if so, when. [38301/23]

View answer

Written answers

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including employing enforcement and compliance officers in the SPSV sector, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA). The NTA is responsible for the collection and publication of statistics relating to SPSV licensing and enforcement. I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV industry.

Accordingly, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
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