A briefing for Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien highlights severe funding challenges for public transport in Ireland, despite its annual budget growth. Key initiatives like BusConnects and fare reductions struggle amid these constraints, with future projects like MetroLink facing funding shortages. The growing transport demand exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions, threatening compliance with climate commitments. Research has been initiated to address public reluctance to switch from cars to public transport, along with evaluating the impact of car advertising on public perception.
"The programme is currently struggling to fund existing levels of service, the expansion of services under BusConnects and Connecting Ireland and also to continue to fund fare initiatives such as the 20pc reduction in general fares..."
"The funding deficit is particularly acute in relation to public transport over the period 2026 to 2030..."
"Compliance at EU or national level will not be possible unless future growth in transport demand is primarily serviced via sustainable modes..."
"The Department has commissioned research to try to understand better what makes people reluctant to switch from their cars to active travel or public transport..."
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