Government Reaffirms Commitment to Establish Transport Security Force
Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to the creation of a Transport Security Force as part of efforts to tackle safety concerns on public transport. This announcement was made during a meeting of the Public Transport Safety Working Group, held on Tuesday 25 March.
The meeting, which marked the third session of the group, saw Minister O’Brien express his satisfaction with the strong collaboration among stakeholders. The Public Transport Safety Working Group, formed in 2024, was established to examine and implement measures to enhance the safety of passengers and staff across the public transport network. The group includes representatives from the National Transport Authority (NTA), unions, An Garda Síochána, the Department of Justice, and passenger advocacy groups.
Minister O’Brien welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with the group on such a vital issue, highlighting the Government's ongoing efforts to address antisocial behaviour across public transport systems. The creation of the Transport Security Force, which is outlined in the Programme for Government, is seen as a significant step in improving safety. The force is expected to operate similarly to Airport Police and Customs Officers, with the powers necessary to maintain order and security on the network.
Despite recent increases in safety investments, Minister O’Brien acknowledged that public transport safety remains a critical concern. The Minister noted that safety incidents continue to affect those who rely on the network daily—both passengers and staff. He emphasised that the establishment of the Transport Security Force would play a central role in improving the situation, offering reassurance to both workers and passengers.
The Department of Transport has already begun the work of identifying the necessary legislative changes to facilitate the creation of the new force. Minister O’Brien stressed the importance of the Public Transport Safety Working Group's involvement in the planning and implementation of this initiative.
Minister O’Brien concluded:
“The establishment of the Transport Security Force is a high priority for Government. I fully support all ongoing positive work, including the meetings of this Group, that contributes towards creating a safer public transport network for staff and passengers.”
This new initiative is expected to strengthen the safety of Ireland’s public transport network and provide much-needed security to the people who use it daily.
