Kevin O'Keeffe (Cork East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I was disappointed to hear the Minister say that he was playing third or fourth fiddle to the Departments of Health and Education and Skills in terms of obtaining extra funds in the coming budget. It is an acknowledged fact that, if we have no transport, people cannot get to work to provide the Exchequer its income. I remind the Minister that less than ten years ago, when the US economy collapsed, its Government increased funding for public infrastructure.

Speaking more locally, the Minister should get more involved in the school bus transport issue. Many pupils could end up staying at home if they cannot get transport to their local second level colleges. Will the Minister impress upon the Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, to have more of an input? This matter is not for the Minister to decide, but the situation is reaching crisis point.

Regarding rural transport, it is important that there be strong connectivity between our towns and major public transport routes. I call on the Minister to invest more money in that.

Expressway bus routes were mentioned. Should the unprofitable ones not be recategorised as PSO routes?

The previous subvention increase was touted as being for new business. If there is to be another increase, how will the Minister roll out that funding?