KeolisAmey Luas has officially taken over the operation and maintenance of the Luas light rail network in Dublin, marking a new chapter for one of Ireland’s most important public transport systems. The company will be responsible for running the network on behalf of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The handover of operations, effective from 1 September, follows several months of preparation and collaboration with staff, the authorities, relevant partners and the former operator, to ensure a seamless transition for passengers.
KeolisAmey Luas is a joint venture in which Keolis holds a 65 per cent stake and Amey a 35 per cent stake, and was awarded the contract in March 2026. The contract runs for seven years and includes an option to extend for a further six years.
The new operator combines Keolis’s international experience in operating public transport systems with Amey’s expertise in engineering, infrastructure and asset management.
The company intends to build on the network’s current performance by introducing improvements designed to increase the reliability and resilience of services, as well as the quality of the passenger experience. Planned initiatives include optimising services, implementing operational and maintenance processes already tried and tested on other networks, utilising remote monitoring technologies, and an infrastructure modernisation programme.
The Luas network carries millions of passengers annually and is a key component of Dublin’s urban mobility, helping to connect communities, support the economy and achieve the city’s sustainable mobility goals. On average, the system is used by over 165,000 passengers every day.
A new chapter for public transport in Dublin
“Our aim is to ensure a smooth transition for passengers and staff, whilst working with our partners to implement improvements and innovations that will contribute to the network’s future development. Together, we are opening a new chapter for Luas, building on its history and creating new opportunities for the people and communities it serves,” said Tom Joyner, Managing Director of KeolisAmey Luas.
KeolisAmey already has experience in operating major urban transport systems in the UK. The partnership is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Docklands Light Railway in London and the Metrolink tram network in Manchester.
The new operator will continue to work with TII, NTA, staff, trade unions and other partners to deliver safe, accessible and passenger-focused services, as well as to prepare for the future expansion of the light rail network in the Irish capital.
“Luas has become an integral part of Dublin’s transport network and plays a vital role in supporting sustainable mobility in the city. We are confident that building on the solid foundations already in place will enable the network to continue to serve passengers and communities successfully,” said Donal Dunne, Senior Operations Manager at TII.
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