Ms Anne Graham:

Deputy Pringle mentioned Galway, in particular, the bypass. One aspect of the approach to the bypass that was probably different in this case was that the NTA, with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, looked at what could be done in terms of an integrated transport plan for Galway city. This plan, which was developed in association with the plans for the bypass, has been adopted by Galway city and county councils. There is proposed investment of €200 million for BusConnects Galway to tackle congestion by improving public transport and promoting sustainable transport in Galway city. The next stage is implementation of the strategic transport plan for Galway.

In terms of Donegal, I am sure some of the bus operators, such as John McGinley Coaches, would be disappointed to hear that the bus takes forever from Donegal. The service is regular and popular. Other services are also provided from Donegal. In addition, local link in Donegal provides a significant number of services right across the Donegal. We continue to support and try to develop even more links between towns, villages and rural areas to ensure people who may not have a car have a public transport service which will bring them to their local town. We will continue to develop that for rural Ireland.