Plans to expand public transport services in Waterford are facing uncertainty, with the National Transport Authority admitting it does not currently have sufficient funding to introduce new services this year.

The NTA has also warned that proposed BusConnects network redesigns in Waterford, Cork and Dublin in 2027 will be dependent on funding being made available.

NTA director of public transport Jeremy Ryan said the organisation continues to invest in capacity, punctuality and reliability improvements, but acknowledged that funding constraints are limiting the expansion of routes.

He said plans for new and enhanced services, including those being developed under the BusConnects Network Redesign programmes, are continuing, but their progression next year will depend on the outcome of discussions with the Department of Transport over 2027 funding.

The figures supplied to Sinn Féin transport spokesperson Pa Daly show that national spending on BusConnects fell significantly last year, with €156 million spent compared with €234 million in 2024. Around €87 million has been spent so far this year.

Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien said €940 million has been allocated for Public Service Obligation services in Budget 2026, but acknowledged that the funding is primarily focused on maintaining and strengthening the existing public transport network.

Mr Daly criticised the lack of funding for new services, saying communities which had been expecting improvements through programmes including BusConnects and Connecting Ireland are now facing delays.

The developments will be closely watched in Waterford, where the BusConnects network redesign is intended to improve the city’s bus network and provide enhanced services.

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