489. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the implementation of a direct route between the Dublin 15 area and Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62455/26]

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 including administrating the fund utilisation.

As the Deputy may be aware, through the BusConnects transformative programme, investment in the bus system have been made covering the construction of new bus corridors, new network services, bus electrification and the development of enhanced ticketing, in an integrated manner to help maximise the benefits to public transport users.

The Network Redesign as part of BusConnects Dublin will improve the existing bus network by providing high frequency spines and new local, orbital, and radial routes. Since 2021, seven phases of the Network Redesign have been rolled out in Dublin. This has included the Northern Orbitals connecting Blanchardstown to the Point Village in 2022, and the Western Orbitals connecting Blanchardstown to Tallaght in 2023. The new route N8 will connect Blanchardstown with Dublin Airport and is planned to enter service in early 2027, subject to available resources and operational readiness.

Overall, BusConnects will transform bus services in our cities, allowing passengers to travel more conveniently, quickly and sustainably, and I look forward to its full implementation.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.