Marked acceleration in transport ambition in NDP plan must be matched with delivery – Murphy

The scale of investment ear-marked for a new national transport plan must be matched with timely delivery, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Michael Murphy, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport, has described the Government’s new National Development Plan (NDP) Transport Sectoral Plan 2026–2030, as the largest and most future-focused transport investment programme in the history of the State.

Deputy Murphy said: “This transport investment programme will shape Ireland for a generation. This sets a new standard for long-term transport delivery, with major road upgrades, transformative projects such as MetroLink, DART+, BusConnects and a significant expansion of active travel.

“We know that traffic congestion impacts negatively on our economy. The Department of Transport estimates congestion costs to be approximately €330m a year for the Greater Dublin Area. These costs are forecast to increase to €1.5bn per annum by 2040; the respective figures for Cork and Galway are approximately €100m per annum.

“Transport infrastructure impacts on everyone, not just on the time spent getting from one place to another, but on carbon emissions, safety and reliability.

“To support the new homes required to house our population, we need better transport. This plan supports high-capacity public transport and unlocks tens of thousands of new homes in well-connected communities.

“The annual indicated allocations for road networks increases steadily over the next four years, from €1.6bn in 2026 and 27, rising to €2.7bn by 2030, which will not only develop and maintain our national road network, but work towards halving road deaths and serious injuries by 2030. As evidenced by another tragedy on our roads this week this work is crucial and there can be no half measures”

Reflecting on Fine Gael’s leadership during NDP negotiations, Deputy Murphy added: “The Tánaiste has said that plan presents a once in a generation opportunity to transform Ireland’s infrastructure and secure the country’s future. Fine Gael pushed hard for a faster, more accountable system focused on delivery, not delay. This plan shows what can be achieved when ambition is matched with action.

“Ireland is done waiting, now we’re building. People want to see shovels in the ground, projects delivered, and real improvements in their daily lives. We’re planning for future generations but there must be benefits to the road users and commuters of today. As Transport Committee Chair, I will ensure strong oversight so that this plan delivers results for families, commuters and communities across Ireland.