Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In terms of public transport, there will be a significant programme. It is not kicking the can down the road. The programme has been announced in terms of an enhanced and expanded rural transport network.

I am a great believer in public transport. My late father drover many a bus to different parts of west Cork and I am fully aware of the needs of Mizen, Glengarriff, Beara and all those areas that need a good regular bus service. They are growing and developing and we must put in alternative investments into these locations and towns in rural areas as well. We must do that right across the western seaboard. I know the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Humphreys, and her team at the Department through the rural regeneration and development fund is really expanding that.

There has been approximately €250 million allocated, covering 164 projects. That is a real and substantive allocation, which the Deputy should acknowledge from time to time. I know the Deputy must raise matters and I do not dispute that.

See this speech in context