Andrew Ebrill has been assigned responsibility at PO level for the Public Transport Investment and Policy Division. The Division oversees the delivery of the Government's ambition to improve public transport infrastructure and assist a modal shift from the private car to more sustainable forms of transport, particularly bus, light rail and rail. In this regard, the Division allocates exchequer funds and oversees the National Transport Authority (NTA), Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Iarnród Éireann in relation to public transport projects and infrastructure. The Division also has a role in helping to secure EU funds for public transport.
Related to the allocation of funds, the Division manages the governance of major public transport projects, including Bus Connects, DART+ and MetroLink, and brings proposals to the Minister and Government for decision at relevant stages. Furthermore, the Division works with Northern Ireland authorities in progressing cross-border public transport initiatives.
In order to provide appropriate steady-state investment on the existing railway network, the Division oversees Iarnród Éireann and collaborates with the Commission for Railway Regulation with regard to the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract (IMMAC) 2020 to 2024.
In support of its work, the Division ensures efficient and effective governance and oversight controls for public transport funds, particularly in relation to expenditure payment and compliance with the Public Spending Code, Public Payment Procedures and our own Procedures for Internal Financial Control (PIFCo)
The Division plays a key role in fostering sustainable transport-orientated development, by liaising with other Government Departments and inputting to metropolitan transport strategies, including Ministerial approval of the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy.
Finally, the Division services the democratic process, including answers to PQs, Ministerial briefings and assistance to Joint Oireachtas Committees.