Conscious of the pressures being faced, particularly by road haulage and commercial passenger transport operators, we are extending the Road Transport Support Scheme for two months this year, at a cost of an estimated €73 million.
We are allocating €5.5 billion to further support the transport sector in 2027.
This will enable a record level of investment to maintain and enhance public transport networks and support the rollout of new and expanded services, including rural transport improvements.
Key Measures
Allocation of €1.042 billion for PSO public transport services, an 11% uplift in the core PSO allocation from 2026. This supports essential public transport services across bus, light rail and heavy rail networks, maintaining accessibility and connectivity nationwide and enabling ongoing expansion. Approximately 140 new and enhanced services are in the pipeline for 2027.
€6 billion in Exchequer resources over the period 2027-2030 to progress MetroLink.
€4.2 billion through the National Development Plan to:
Provide for additional investment in DART+, BusConnects and the Cork Area Commuter Rail programmes;
Support major road projects such as the Adare Bypass, the Galway Ring Road and the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy.
Funding for local authorities with grants for targeted works including resealing and strengthening road surfaces; bridge repair; climate adaptation and safety measures; and drainage.
Approximately €400 million for the protection and renewal of the heavy rail network.
€362.6 million investment in walking and cycling infrastructure projects across all local authorities, including Greenway sections and Safe Routes to School projects, as well as behavioural change programmes including CycleRight and Smarter Travel.
Over €19 million to support regional airports, meaning continued capital investment and operational support for safety, security and sustainability operations at Shannon, Ireland West, Kerry and Donegal airports.
Extension of the €5,000 VRT relief for Battery EVs.
Ring-fenced funding for the design and delivery of a pilot grant scheme to support households without access to off-street parking to put in place safe and approved cross-pavement charging. This will make EV ownership a realistic option for more people.
Funding of €6.5 million for the new Vehicle Adaptation Scheme, supporting drivers and passengers who require adaptations to enter, exit, or operate a motor vehicle, enhancing their personal mobility options.
An allocation of €39.6 million for the aviation sector, including the PSO air service between Donegal and Dublin. Support for the introduction of a Dublin-Derry PSO air service will be provided under the Shared Island Fund.
