Minister O’Brien affirms Government commitment to establish Transport Security Force

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, affirmed the Government commitment to the establishment of a Transport Security Force at a meeting of the Public Transport Safety Working Group, held by the Department of Transport on Tuesday 25 March. 
 
This was the third meeting of the Group, and Minister O’Brien welcomed its strong cross-sectoral collaboration and efforts to date. The Public Transport Safety Working Group was established in 2024 to identify measures to improve passenger and staff safety across the public transport network. It includes representatives from across the public transport sector including the National Transport Authority (NTA); unions; An Garda Síochána; the Department of Justice; and passenger representative groups
 
Minister O’Brien welcomed the opportunity to discuss the important issue of safety on public transport directly with the Group, and to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to tackling the issue of antisocial behaviour across the network. Creating a Transport Security Force under the NTA is a strong commitment under the Programme for Government. It is envisaged that the Transport Security Force would operate in a similar manner, and have similar powers, to Airport Police and Customs Officers. 
 
While there has been a significant increase in investment in safety measures on public transport in recent years, it remains a serious issue. It is the people who regularly use and work within our public transport network who are most directly affected by any safety or security incidents on the network. The establishment of the Transport Security Force will play a central role in helping to tackle this important issue.
 
Minister O’Brien confirmed that the Department of Transport has already begun work to identify the necessary legislative proposals and alterations to enable the establishment of the Transport Security Force, and highlighted the important role that the Group will play in the planning and implementation of this important commitment.
 
Minister O’Brien said: “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.”