KeolisAmey Luas has officially assumed responsibility for operating and maintaining Dublin’s Luas light rail network, marking the start of a new era for one of Europe’s most successful tram systems.
The new contract, awarded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA), came into effect today following an extensive mobilisation programme involving employees, stakeholders and the outgoing operator to ensure a seamless transition for passengers.
Bringing together the international transport expertise of Keolis and the infrastructure management capabilities of Amey, the new operator aims to build on the Luas network’s strong track record while delivering a series of improvements focused on reliability, resilience and customer experience.
Among the initiatives planned during the early years of the contract are enhanced service delivery, the introduction of proven operations and maintenance practices, remote monitoring technologies and wider infrastructure improvements designed to support the network’s long-term growth.
The Luas network carries millions of passengers annually and plays a vital role in supporting sustainable travel, economic development and connectivity across Dublin. KeolisAmey Luas says its focus will be on preserving the qualities passengers value most while preparing the network for future expansion.
Leadership Focused on Continuity and Innovation
Tom Joyner, Managing Director of KeolisAmey Luas, added:
"This is an important day for everyone connected with the Luas. We inherit a network with a strong reputation for safety, reliability and customer service, and our priority is to protect and build upon that success.
"Our focus is to ensure a smooth transition for passengers and colleagues while working with our partners to start to deliver the improvements and innovations that will help shape the future of the network. Together, we are opening a new chapter for Luas, one that builds on its proud history whilst creating new opportunities for the people and communities it serves.”
Strengthening Public Transport in Ireland
Richard Graham, CEO of Keolis Ireland, said:
"Today marks an important milestone for Keolis and for public transport in Ireland. Alongside Amey, we are honoured to take on responsibility for operating and maintaining the Luas and to serve the people of Dublin.
"The Luas is already one of Europe's most successful light rail networks. Our focus is on building on that success, bringing international expertise, innovation and best practice to support its continued development. Working closely with TII, NTA, our colleagues and stakeholders, we look forward to helping elevate the Luas into its next chapter."
Engineering Expertise and Network Resilience
Andy Milner, CEO of Amey, said:
"Amey has a long history of managing and maintaining critical transport infrastructure, and we are proud to bring that expertise to Luas. Together with Keolis, we will focus on ensuring the network remains resilient, efficient and well positioned to support Dublin's future transport ambitions.
"By combining operational excellence with engineering and asset management expertise, we will help create the foundations for the network's continued development in the years ahead."
Support from TII and NTA
Donal Dunne, Senior Operations Manager, TII, said:
"Today marks the start of a new operational chapter for the Luas. We welcome KeolisAmey Luas as our new operating partner and look forward to working together to continue delivering a safe, reliable and customer-focused service for passengers.
"The Luas has become an integral part of Dublin's transport network and plays a critical role in supporting sustainable mobility across the city. We are confident that building on the strong foundations already in place will help ensure the network continues to serve passengers and communities successfully into the future."
Anne Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of the National Transport Authority (NTA) added:
“As a key part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) public transport network, Luas has transformed how people travel across Dublin since its launch, providing a safe, reliable and sustainable transport option for millions of passengers every year.
"We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and working closely with KeolisAmey Luas as it begins this new chapter for the network. Together, we will build on Luas's success, maintaining the high standards of service and reliability that passengers expect while driving innovation and improvements that enhance the customer experience and support the network's future growth.”
KeolisAmey Luas will continue working alongside TII, NTA, employees, trade unions and industry stakeholders to ensure the network remains safe, accessible and customer-focused while supporting future growth ambitions for Dublin’s expanding light rail system.
Image credits: Vuelio
