Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

There is recognition within the programme for Government of the importance of the rural transport programme. My Department is currently exploring efficiencies that can be achieved by bringing together aspects of HSE transport, school transport, the rural transport programme and other transport services. A study of a pilot scheme on the integration of transport services has been carried out and I intend to publish it shortly. A value-for-money and policy review of the rural transport programme has been completed. I have received a copy of this report, which I also intend to publish shortly, following consideration by the Government. The findings of both the value-for-money review and of the pilot scheme are being considered in the context of developing plans for the future delivery of integrated rural and local transport.

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