Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his comments, and I compliment the officials who negotiated the return of this route. I take on board the Deputy's views on how important that route is for people living in isolated areas.

It is worth recalling that there has been a significant increase in the numbers using such services. In 2001, more than 600,000 people were availing of the free transport scheme, but more than 800,000 are using it currently. This year, it will cost taxpayers €77 million to support the scheme. It is a worthwhile scheme and the commitment to maintain it is a priority for the Government. I do not have the information the Deputy requested on routes that have been discontinued in recent years. However, it is the Government's intention to try, where practicable, to keep existing routes running. The subvention will be maintained and funding is committed to it within this budget.

I will revert to the Deputy on the European Commission ruling to which the Deputy referred in the context of information from Marian Harkin, MEP. As soon as I get that information I will forward it to the Deputy.

See this speech in context