Commute times are increasing, and a growing number of private cars on the road is a significant contributing factor. Over the past two decades, from 2005 to 2025, the number of cars in the Republic of Ireland rose from 1.6 million to 2.5 million – a 56% increase, according to figures from the Department of Transport and the Central Statistics Office.
Rising Car Ownership & Population Growth
This increase in car numbers occurred alongside population growth. In 2005, the Republic of Ireland had 4.1 million residents, whereas by last year, that number had risen to 5.4 million – a 31% increase. However, the growth in private car ownership has outpaced population growth.
Despite this growth, Ireland’s car ownership rate remains the fourth lowest in the European Union. Economic growth over the last 20 years has also played a role, providing more people with the financial means to purchase vehicles.
Travel Patterns & Challenges
The National Household Travel Survey for 2024, published by the National Transport Authority, revealed that the vast majority of journeys – 71% – are made by car. Other modes of transport account for a much smaller share: 18% on foot, 4% by bus or coach, 3% in truck or van, 2% by bike, and 1% by train, DART, or Luas.
The current housing crisis is also contributing to longer commutes, as people seek more affordable accommodation further from employment centers. This often makes public transport, cycling, or walking impractical.
Government Response & Future Outlook
The State has increased spending on transport, with the Department of Transport’s budget rising from €1.8 billion in 2016 to €4.7 billion in 2026. This year, €2.39 billion is allocated to public transport and sustainable mobility, while €1.73 billion is earmarked for roads and road safety.
Despite this investment, UCD Professor of Transport Economics Aisling Reynolds-Feighan believes that current levels of investment in public transport are insufficient to significantly reduce reliance on private cars. She suggests that substantial improvements to public transport reliability, cost, and convenience are needed, including expanding light rail networks and completing projects like MetroLink, which she estimates will accept 20 years.
Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien acknowledges “issues” with congestion but points to record public transport usage in 2025, with approximately 365 million passenger journeys – over a million per day. He stated that a working group, which he chairs, is examining short-term measures to alleviate congestion, particularly in the Greater Dublin Area.
Dr. Pete Lunn, Research Professor with the Economic and Social Research Institute, notes that resistance to changes in public transport is common, citing initial opposition to the Luas as an example.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of journeys in Ireland are made by car?
According to the National Household Travel Survey for 2024, 71% of all journeys are made by car.
How has the Department of Transport’s budget changed over the past decade?
The Department of Transport’s budget has risen from €1.8 billion in 2016 to €4.7 billion in 2026.
What are the two largest spending categories within the Department of Transport’s current budget?
The two largest spending categories are public transport and sustainable mobility (€2.39 billion) and roads and road safety (€1.73 billion).
As Ireland’s population and workforce continue to grow, will current and planned investments in public transport be enough to address the increasing congestion on our roads?
