Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)

Irrespective of the very difficult financial times, I hope the western rail corridor will continue on schedule. The Minister has said it will continue but many people, including myself, are becoming sceptical as each day passes. I expect the Minister will refer to it in his concluding contribution.

The subvention is being increased but there will need to be much better value for money. I ask the Minister to note that one cannot compare sparsely populated areas such as parts of the west of Ireland with Dublin city. The subvention system cannot be used the same way in either place. The rural transport initiative is very important for the outlying areas of the west of Ireland. I ask the Minister to ensure a balance. Córas Iompair Éireann, Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann are doing a fantastic job and they have come on in leaps and bounds. However, unless the private sector is given an opportunity to compete, then we will be back to the bad old days which is something neither the Minister nor I would want to see happening.

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