The Asthma Society of Ireland has today made a formal submission to the National Transport Authority as part of its consultation on the proposed policy for the carriage of pets on Transport for Ireland services, highlighting the need to ensure that any changes to pet access on public transport fully consider the health and safety of people living with asthma and allergies.
Policy & advocacy
March 19, 2026
The Society broadly supports measures that encourage increased use of public transport, noting that greater public transport uptake can contribute to improved air quality and reduced reliance on private vehicles. These outcomes are particularly important for respiratory health, including for the estimated 450,000 people living with asthma in Ireland.
It also recognises the important role pets play in many people’s lives and understands the rationale for improving accessibility for pet owners. However, it is urging the National Transport Authority to carefully consider the potential impacts on passengers with asthma and allergies as part of its policy development.
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterised by heightened sensitivity to triggers such as viral infections, cold air, damp environments, and airborne irritants including dust mite and pet dander. Exposure to these triggers can lead to airway narrowing, increased mucus production, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, this can escalate to acute asthma attacks requiring urgent medical attention and may become life-threatening.
The Asthma Society notes that exposure to pet dander is a well-established trigger for both asthma exacerbations and allergic reactions in sensitised individuals. For some passengers, this could significantly impact their ability to travel safely and comfortably on public transport.
In its submission, the organisation is calling for a balanced approach that supports accessibility for pet owners while ensuring appropriate safeguards for vulnerable passengers. Recommended considerations include enhanced cleaning protocols, clear guidance on pet containment (such as the use of carriers), and the potential introduction of designated pet-free spaces or services where feasible.
The Asthma Society emphasises that inclusive transport policy must also be safe for those with respiratory conditions, and that health impacts should be central to any expansion of pet carriage policies.
It has also confirmed that it is available to support the National Transport Authority further as the policy develops.
Members of the public who have asthma, or those caring for someone with the condition, and who may be concerned about the implications of this policy are encouraged to contact the Asthma Society’s free Asthma Adviceline on 1800 44 54 64 or via WhatsApp on 086 059 01 32, where specialist respiratory nurses can provide personalised advice on managing triggers and symptoms.
Further details on the consultation are available here. Submissions can be made until 5pm on Friday 20 March 2026.