The Minister for Transport is the chief person at the Department of Transport in the Irish Government. The Minister and the Department are responsible for implementing an integrated transport policy. The integrated policy will be designed as far as possible to overcome existing delays, bottlenecks and congestion and to provide the consumer with greater choice by offering alternative modes of transport. Through the integrated approach the Department will develop and implement policies designed to improve regional balance, and reduce rural isolation and social exclusion.

Specific responsibilities in relation to the national roads and road transport include, delivering on the national roads programme as part of the national development plan, implementing the Governments roads safety strategy and related policies for vehicle standards regulation, road haulage licensing, driver licensing and driver testing all come under the aegis of the Minister for Transport.

In respect of aviation policy, the Department is responsible for ensuring that aviation practices and procedures comply with best international standards; promoting the development of a vibrant, competitive and progressively regulated aviation sector and the provision of adequate airport infrastructure and competitive airport services.

In 1991 the minister was transferred the functions of the Minister for Communications.

Minister for Transport & Power 1959–1977

Minister for Tourism & Transport 1977–1980

Minister for Transport 1980–1987

Minister for Tourism & Transport 1987–1991

Minister for Tourism, Tranport & Communication 1991–1993

Minister for Transport, Energy & Communication 1993–1997

Minister for Public Enterprise 1997–2002

Minister for Transport 2002–present