632. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport whether the National Transport Authority has undertaken an assessment of the case for a dedicated urban bus service for Mallow, County Cork; the outcome of any such assessment; whether funding has been identified for such a service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64118/26]

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 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.

We are at a key juncture for public transport in Ireland. Reliable and sustainable services are critical as passenger numbers grow, congestion worsens in urban areas, and a greater proportion of the population depends on public transport for commuting, education, and essential travel.

The 2026 allocation therefore focuses on maintaining and strengthening the existing network after several years of reliance on significant supplementary funding. This ensures that high-demand public transport services can continue to operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.

The NTA is managing the 2026 allocation by prioritising delivery of existing programmes in line with operational readiness and resources. Enhancements within the current allocation are prioritised, some changes are cost-neutral, while others require additional resources, and all are subject to funding, readiness, and capacity.

Transport planning and strategic decision-making are guided by a balanced assessment of operational and resource considerations. These decisions are also made following operational and performance analysis of existing services, including customer feedback. Funding for new services in 2027 will be considered through the annual Estimates process, taking account of competing funding demands and wider public transport priorities.

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