The government’s National Transport Plan is completely lacking in ambition, according to Social Democrats transport spokesperson Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore said:
“The government’s National Transport Plan lacks all ambition and its rollout of public transport projects is unacceptably slow.
“Luas Finglas, which received planning permission this month, won’t start construction until 2029. This is not a complicated project, it’s a four kilometer extension of a line that already exists. There is no excuse for this kind of delay.
“Earlier this year, the Taoiseach promised to accelerate the delivery of the Cork Luas. However, yesterday’s plan didn’t earmark any funding for this commitment.
“Similarly, there is no funding for Luas Lucan, Poolbeg or Bray – and no indication of when these projects are likely to go ahead.
“Under the plan, Dart+ South West, which also already has planning precision, will not begin construction until 2030 – after this government’s term of office is over.
“The Waterford to Rosslare rail line, a critical project for development in the South East, was also ignored by the plan – a document littered with shortcomings.
“Incredibly, funding for active travel is not inflation-proofed either, amounting to an effective cut over the next five years for this essential infrastructure.
“This failure to prioritise public transport means increasing gridlock, longer commutes and higher emissions.
“It will also have consequences for the delivery of homes around the country, given long promised transport infrastructure is not likely to be developed until deep into the next decade or even later.
“Lip service and empty promises are no use to communities which are severely underserviced by public transport, hugely lengthening commutes to work, school and college and making more and more people dependent on their cars.
“This government claims to want to prioritise public transport but the reality is those vital projects have been sacrificed so more money can be pumped into roads.
“A seachange in approach towards the delivery of public transport is urgently needed. These projects need competent planning, shorter timelines and adequate funding so that communities can be connected to the places they need to be.”
November 27th, 2025