Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 April 2024
141. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the investment in train and bus fleets and infrastructure to maintain safety and service standards, including expansion where necessary as outlined in the National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18485/24]
View answerThe National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-2030 is a plan for a cleaner, greener, connected Ireland that supports communities and progresses our climate goals.
Projects delivered under the NDP will transform how we travel, connect us to our communities and help us halve our greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The NDP will deliver a transport system which provides greater choices to travel more efficiently, making it easier for people to travel sustainably, by footpath, cycleway, road and rail.
Included in the NDP is the Infrastructure Managers Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC), which provides a multi-annual investment programme to protect our national railway system by funding maintenance and safety projects needed to maintain safety and services levels in railway operations. Approximately €1.3bn in Exchequer funding will go towards the protection and renewal of the national rail network under the current IMMAC contract which runs from 2020 to 2024.
In view of Iarnród Éireann's responsibility for the IMMAC, I have referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply.
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. Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have also 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.
