The introduction of a dedicated public transport police unit is a priority, according to Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan, as the government responds to growing concerns over safety on buses, trains, and trams.
For years, passengers and transport staff have called for stronger measures to address rising incidents of harassment, vandalism, and violence on public transport. While private security teams are already in place on some services, critics argue they lack the authority needed to deal with serious offences effectively.
Minister Jim O’Callaghan has emphasised that any new transport police unit must be given the power to make arrests in order to be truly effective. Without these powers, he warns, the force could struggle to deter criminal behaviour.
The introduction of such a unit would likely require new legislation, something Minister O’Callaghan expects will be necessary to ensure the police have a clear legal framework for their operations. As discussions continue, the move is being seen as a major step toward improving public safety across Ireland’s transport network.
