Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Dooley. I am committed to improving rural transport throughout the country. The steps taken so far have been small but universally welcomed. The fact that three Local Link services, including that in Clare, did not initially apply did not reflect any disdain or dismissal on their behalf of the night services we were offering but rather were due to timing problems. I welcome that Local Link Clare has now applied. As the Deputy is aware, three evening services are being introduced in east Clare. The first will serve Feakle, Scarriff and Tuamgraney; the second, Feakle, Tulla, O'Callaghansmills and Kilkishen; while the third is a festival service which will serve East Clare Golf Club and surrounding hostels. I will provide the Deputy with a direct response on those routes when I receive further information. We have committed to the provision of those services.

The requirements in rural Ireland are entirely different to those in urban areas. There is a social need for services in rural areas and although there may not be any prospect of the services in many areas being an economic or commercial success, I fully accept there is an obligation on the State to provide such transport for people who are isolated or do not have the frequency or variety of services that are available in Dublin. I hope the Deputy will accept my bona fides in that regard.

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