243. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport whether consideration is being given by the National Transport Authority and Iarnród Éireann to increasing the number of Intercity services stopping at Newbridge and reducing current gaps between services, including the introduction of later-night rail services between Dublin and Newbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67742/26]

244. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport the plans in place to increase commuter rail capacity and service frequency on the Dublin-Kildare corridor serving Newbridge; whether additional peak-time and off-peak services are under consideration; and the timelines for any proposed enhancements. [67741/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 243 and 244 together.

As Minister of State, I have responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports; 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.  As Minister for Transport I continue to engage with the NTA on an ongoing basis in relation to maintaining high operational standards on all forms of public transport.

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.