Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Ms Graham referred earlier to demand in particular areas. In regard to the three routes that it appears now will be cut, I find it hard to believe that Bus Éireann has been operating on these routes for the past ten or 15 years and that it only recently came to light that they are not viable or that there is no demand for a service on those routes. Should those routes be axed, will the NTA ensure alternative provision is put in place on those routes? The areas affected are in three different parts of the country that require regional development. Will the NTA give an undertaking that if Bus Éireann axes those routes from its service it will put in place an alternative service that provides the same level of service as been available up to now?