Pet owners could soon be able to bring their dogs, cats and other small animals with them on public transport.
New proposals from the National Transport Authority (NTA) would allow small pets to travel on buses, trains and the Luas, provided they do not threaten the safety of passengers.
Animals would have to remain on their owner’s lap or on the ground. They could not sit on seats or block passageways.
The proposals come after the NTA received 2,567 responses during a public consultation. It said there was strong support for allowing pets on public transport.
A proposal requiring small pets to be carried in a suitable box or basket has now been withdrawn. The NTA said this followed strong opposition that the rule would be impractical.
Under the proposals, larger dogs could also travel on public transport. They would need to be on a lead and muzzled.
A larger dog could be refused transport if a bus, train, Luas or DART service is close to capacity.
The NTA has also proposed keeping animals separated from other pets where possible.
Existing rules for guide dogs and assistance dogs would remain unchanged. They can continue to use public transport without restrictions.
The NTA said the changes could help people who do not have access to a car, including those travelling with pets to vets, parks or family members.
Supporters also said greater access for pets could encourage people to use public transport instead of relying on cars.
However, concerns were raised about allergies, hygiene, noise, safety and passengers who are afraid of dogs.
Some respondents also suggested creating designated areas for pets on public transport.
The NTA will now prepare changes to its bye-laws and work with bus, rail and Luas operators on putting the new policy into practice.
The changes will not happen immediately, with the NTA saying it will take some time to finalise and implement the new rules.
