I would like an update on the delivery timeline for BusConnects in Galway.

I thank the Deputy. As she may be aware, the NTA published the final new bus network design for Galway in December 2023. The redesign of the bus network is one of the key elements of BusConnects Galway, which aims to transform the city’s bus system, making public transport more useful to more people.

This new Galway network redesign involves extensive analysis and public consultation. The NTA carried out a detailed review of the bus network in collaboration with Galway City Council, Galway County Council and local bus operators, and with the specialised expertise of transport designers. In April 2023, a draft new network was published, and the feedback and submissions received have informed the final new bus network published that December. The new bus network will result in increased access to more schools and workplaces across Galway city, Barna and Oranmore. Once implemented, approximately 67% of residents will live within 400 m of a high-frequency bus route, that is, buses running every 15 minutes or better. The NTA is currently working closely with Galway city and county councils to progress key infrastructure required for the roll-out of the redesigned services. The redesigned services are expected to commence in 2027, subject to operational readiness and funding.

Other elements of BusConnects Galway are under development, including the cross-city link project, which was approved by An Bord Pleanála in September 2024 and is currently subject to judicial review, and the Dublin Road scheme, which the NTA is due to submit to An Bord Pleanála shortly. The Salmon Weir pedestrian and cycling bridge was officially opened to the public in May 2023, helping to improve existing bus services.

Overall, BusConnects will transform bus services in our cities, allowing passengers to travel more conveniently, quickly and sustainably. I look forward to the full implementation of BusConnects in Galway, no more than the Deputy.

Go raibh maith agat, a Aire Stáit. It is good to be talking to a Galway Minister on these issues. The latest I have on this states the dates for implementation of the new service have not yet been set but it is anticipated the changes would happen in 2027. I thank the Minister of State for his response but it is disappointing to hear that the BusConnects network changes have been pushed back again. What is causing the delay? I was previously told the changes would start to come in during 2025. More recently, I was told 2026 and now I am hearing about 2027. Will the Minister of State clarify how the 2027 date is compatible with the contracts in place? If there is a two-year gap between the end of the current City Direct contracts and the network changes, would that mean the NTA intends to implement new contracts with City Direct between 2025 and 2027?

I, too, question why we have to wait two years to get it implemented. It is something I will be going back on because it is important that we deliver infrastructure faster. The Government's approach is to implement things rather than strategise them. We have enough of the paperwork done. We need to get it going.

We have a huge problem with traffic in Galway city. We need to push on with the projects we need in the city, which will affect the county in its entirety. At the moment, we are developing Ceannt Station, bringing in four platforms. We have a passing loop in Oranmore, which has planning permission and which will bring more people into the city by public transport. We will also be looking at development of the western rail corridor from Athenry heading north to Claremorris. All of that will mean more people and fewer cars coming in.

I agree with the Deputy that the pace at which we are carrying out these infrastructure projects leaves a lot to be desired. I will be taking it up with them.

We all understand how difficult the traffic situation is in Galway and how it impacts people's lives every day when they are commuting, but my questions are specific because I have been dealing with it for a while. Does the NTA intend to implement new contracts with City Direct between 2025 and 2027?

I am aware the new network will replace all current services. Does the Minister of State mean that the new network will be run by Bus Éireann alone or will other contractors play a role?

I am concerned because this is something we have been waiting for for quite a long time. The 15 minutes he mentioned is extremely welcome as long as we keep our bus stop in Mervue. It is essential. I have raised that on numerous occasions. As the new Minister of State is from Galway and understands the importance of the Mervue bus stop, I want to highlight it here.

The Deputy is not the first public representative to talk to me about Mervue, so I am well aware of it.

I am sure.

On the detail the Deputy is looking for as regards the running of the bus service and the contracts that will be in place, that is information I do not have now.

I will come back to the Deputy because it is something I need to know about myself. As I said, I am just into the job so I will be finding out.

Thank you.