Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Page 50 of the programme for Government highlights the Government's recognition of the value of rural transport to rural communities, particularly for older people and persons vulnerable to social isolation. The National Transport Authority is forcing a policy change on rural transport service operators. It is splitting functions and stripping away the booking and co-ordination office from transport operations. Let us consider County Clare as an example. The booking office for the Local Link service will now be based in west Limerick, where there is no knowledge, experience or understanding of the geography or terrain of County Clare.

One could not make this up if one tried. There is little doubt that this decision will destroy the Local Link service that has been operated by Clare Accessible Transport for many years and which is a pilot project that is recognised as best in class right across the country. I cannot understand why this policy decision has been changed and implemented. I appeal to the Taoiseach, at this late stage, to try to get the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, to stall the process and prevent the signing of the contract in order that we have a chance to hold onto what we have and ensure that a good service is maintained for the benefit of those people.

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