Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

I agree with the sentiments of the Deputy's comments. From an Exchequer point of view, I will try to protect the service as much as is practicable. I take on board the Deputy's comments in regard to the National Transport Authority. As suggested by Deputy Bannon, we will be looking at greater integration and structures and would welcome his support in this regard. We will need to look at all of the services about which we have both spoken, including the HSE, school transport and voluntary groups in terms of how we can achieve greater integration and economies and through that provide a better service. We must ensure we do not have different types of transport services operating in the same direction at the same time. In this regard, transport providers will have to work closer. In doing so, we might be able to provide or extend services in other areas which currently do not have a public transport service. I live in an area which does not have such a service.

Through greater integration, we hope to provide a better service. This will require the coming together of many agencies and Departments, which will be a serious programme of work. However, 2012 is the year we hope will be the year when the back will be broken in relation to this work so that we can deliver better services into the future.

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