344. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department has put in place to encourage the uptake of a career in bus driving; the supports available for driver training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61286/26]

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to 'open' public transport.

However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators. In addition, it is the individual transport companies, for example Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus, which have responsibility for staffing and employment matters in their companies.

From a policy perspective, the Programme for Government commits to enhancing and supporting a skilled workforce to maintain and operate public transport vehicles.

To advance this policy commitment, my Department chairs the Public Transport Workforce Taskforce, which brings together representatives from a number of Departments, including the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, relevant agencies, public transport operators, unions, and training bodies. The Taskforce is tasked with identifying the key factors contributing to recruitment challenges for State transport services and developing practical measures to support a sustainable pipeline of drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers. My Department is continuing to engage with stakeholders, with a view to publishing an action plan in the coming weeks.