249. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the enhancement of the 130 bus in Kildare South. [64988/26]

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; 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, including any enhancement to existing routes, in this case bus route 130 running in Kildare south which is operated by Go-Ahead Ireland.

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 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 or enhanced 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.