Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

I probably come from a smaller rural community than Deputy Troy and, therefore, am very conscious of and passionate about this issue. I fully intend to support transport services in rural areas because I know their value very much.

The two reports will be published very shortly. The issues that will transcend not just the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport but also other areas are being considered. In particular, we are examining school transport, transport related to health services, particularly HSE transport, and issues pertaining to voluntary and community transport services that are being provided. In that context, the issues transcend the Department and the need to consider this.

The commitment is in the programme for Government and the Government is determined to deal with it in the short and medium terms. It is a priority for the Government.

The rural transport scheme has provided great services in rural Ireland, which have been quite successful in some areas and less successful in others. Many of the people who operate these services are determined to provide rural areas with good transport services. However, it is necessary to examine how we can bring together bus services, whether provided by Bus Éireann or community or voluntary groups, and examine all other services in an area so there can be greater connectivity while we make the money we have go further.

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