Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I asked the Minister a number of questions. He outlined what his view is before taking NPHET advice regarding mask wearing. I am saying out straight that many workers have a deep concern there, particularly in transport and retail.

I know there are problems with introducing new technology in the public transport system. I had to clean up a mess that lasted eight and a half years, under the last Government involving the Green Party and the previous Fianna Fáil Government, in respect of the Leap card and finally introduce it. There is always a lead time with changes in technology, and I understand that. However, the Minister has given us various different dates and commitments regarding the four schemes I mentioned.

As regards commercial services, I am one of the people who opposes this urban-rural divide. The Minister has to deliver as much for commercial services and for providers who are operating in rural areas as in urban areas. If he wants people to use public transport in rural areas, as he keeps saying, he will have to deliver for them on timelines as well.

Finally, the Minister did not give a commitment on when the flexi-taxsaver travel ticket will be delivered. Everybody needs to be able to use that as well, given their changing working conditions and times.

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