Ireland’s public transport network is adopting a coordinated approach to passenger and staff protection following the launch of a new Public Transport Safety Charter. The framework sets out shared commitments around security, incident prevention and respectful behaviour, with a focus on making everyday journeys safer for everyone using the network.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien launched the Charter on 4 November. Transport for Ireland’s announcement, published on 5 November 2026, explains that it was developed by the Public Transport Security Working Group, convened in 2024 and involving transport operators, trade unions, commuter representatives and An Garda Síochána.

The framework identifies practical measures to improve safety across stations and stops, including lighting improvement programmes, CCTV enhancements, help information points and clearer channels for reporting incidents. These priorities give transport operators a shared basis for reviewing security arrangements and identifying where infrastructure or operational improvements may be needed.

The Charter also recognises the importance of protecting the people who deliver public transport services. Drivers, inspectors, station employees, maintenance teams and customer-service staff all contribute to keeping the network operating. Alongside the Charter, the Government and TFI launched the “Respect the People Behind Every Journey” campaign. The National Transport Authority’s campaign announcement outlines its aim of encouraging passengers to show consideration for frontline workers and fellow travellers.

The working group brings together the Department of Transport, National Transport Authority, CIÉ, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann, KeolisAmey Luas, Go-Ahead Ireland, trade union organisations and An Garda Síochána. This collaboration recognises that safety across a transport journey depends on more than the vehicle itself. Stations, waiting areas, interchanges and surrounding facilities also need appropriate security, maintenance and reporting arrangements.

For facilities management and security suppliers, the Charter identifies several areas of potential relevance, including CCTV, lighting, passenger information systems and station improvements. These could create future requirements for technology providers, maintenance contractors and security specialists as operators develop implementation plans. However, the launch announcement does not identify specific tenders, contract awards or a confirmed schedule for completing upgrades.

The Charter will also complement the planned establishment of a Transport Security Force. In the Department of Transport’s announcement, Minister O’Brien said work to establish the force was progressing and remained a Government priority. Its creation is still under development and should be distinguished from the measures already set out in the published Charter.

The NTA’s 2024 Passenger Personal Security Report provides wider context for the initiative. The report found that nine in ten bus, tram and train users felt safe during their journeys, while also identifying continuing concerns about anti-social behaviour and opportunities to improve security. The findings underline the importance of maintaining positive passenger experiences while continuing to strengthen prevention and support.

For the sector, the lesson is direct: protecting passengers and transport workers requires coordinated action across infrastructure, operations and workplace culture. Ireland’s Safety Charter gives operators and their partners a shared framework for improving security and making public transport a safer, more welcoming environment.

Source: Transport for Ireland, Minister O’Brien launches Public Transport Safety Charter