Ireland’s public transport expansion will depend on more than new buses, rail lines and infrastructure. The new public transport workforce plan, launched by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, sets out a national approach to recruiting, training and retaining the people needed to keep services operating safely and reliably.
Published by the Department of Transport on 8 October 2026, People Moving People: Public Transport Workforce Taskforce Action Plan 2026–2029 responds to workforce pressures across Ireland’s bus, rail and rural transport sectors.
Public transport workforce plan targets recruitment and retention
The plan was developed by the Public Transport Workforce Taskforce, established in 2025 under the Programme for Government. Its members included transport operators, Government Departments, State agencies, training providers, unions and other sector representatives.
The taskforce identified difficulties in attracting and retaining drivers, mechanics, engineers, craftworkers and other skilled staff. The new roadmap aims to address those pressures through coordinated action, including:
- Expanding recruitment opportunities across the transport sector
- Improving training and career-entry pathways
- Reducing unnecessary barriers for applicants
- Supporting staff retention and career progression
- Promoting public transport as a long-term career choice
Safety remains central to the proposals, with training and workforce development expected to support high standards across the national network.
Supporting BusConnects, DART+ and MetroLink
Ireland is investing heavily in public transport through projects including BusConnects, Connecting Ireland, DART+ and MetroLink. According to the Department of Transport, delivering these projects and planned service improvements will require a skilled workforce capable of operating, maintaining and supporting an increasingly complex network.
The strategy also places strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Measures are intended to encourage more women and people from underrepresented communities to pursue careers in public transport, helping operators build a broader and more sustainable talent pipeline.
Why rural transport is included
Reliable transport is particularly important in rural communities, where bus and rail connections link people with employment, education, healthcare and essential services. The plan recognises that workforce shortages can directly affect the availability and reliability of those connections.
Minister O’Brien said implementation would require continued cooperation between operators, Government, training providers and worker representatives. The taskforce will oversee delivery and monitor progress during the plan’s 2026–2029 period.
What the plan means for future transport workers
For potential applicants, the action plan signals a wider range of entry routes and greater focus on professional development. Roles may span driving, engineering, vehicle maintenance, operations, customer service and technical support.
For passengers, the objective is straightforward: ensure Ireland has enough trained staff to deliver dependable, accessible and sustainable public transport as demand grows.
Key takeaway
The public transport workforce plan makes people central to Ireland’s transport strategy. Its success will depend on turning recruitment and training commitments into practical opportunities, while retaining experienced staff and creating a more inclusive workforce for the years ahead.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
