74. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the development of his Department’s sectoral investment plan following the national development plan review; if there is a date for the publication of this sectoral investment plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63319/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Will the Minister of State provide an update on the development of his Department's sectoral investment plan following the national development plan review? Is there a date for the publication of this plan?

Sentiment score: 0.00

Capital investment is badly needed to expand the availability and quality of public transport services. I look forward to seeing the planned projects. It is critical that works commence on the various infrastructure projects that are badly needed. For the day-to-day running of our public transport system, PSO funding is important, particularly for bus routes. Before the budget, we heard a funding gap existed between PSO funding and the funding needed for existing services and that this gap could have ranged up to €250 million. Will the Minister of State clarify if this gap still exists and whether the NDP will need to be dipped into in this regard? The funding was increased in the budget but there was no breakdown of how much would be eaten up by existing services. Will the Minister of State outline how much of the PSO funding allocated in the budget will be used to maintain existing levels of service, including the current fare reductions and existing public transport services?

Sentiment score: -0.12

Can clarity be provided on how much of next year's PSO funding allocation will be used to address the existing funding gap and maintaining existing services? Will the Minister of State provide a breakdown of that, if possible? PSO funding constraints are causing difficulties in the roll-out of services. We know that from our constituency as well. For example, Athenry has been waiting a long time for a bus service. The risk here is that if the PSO funding is not adequate, we will not have a roll-out of services and we could see existing services cease or fares increase for commuters. This also comes at a time when Bus Éireann is considering the viability of many of its Expressway bus routes. Has the Minister of State or the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, met Bus Éireann management regarding the Expressway route feasibility review? Do they intend to intervene on this issue to ensure the Expressway services across the State are maintained?

Sentiment score: 0.07