Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael)

The Deputy's question is different from the one that was submitted. To provide one figure, under this Government and the last Government, we have seen an increase in funding for the rural transport programme. It has gone from €16 million in 2022 to €25 million last year. As the Deputy will know quite well, we have seen growth in his county of Kerry. For example, route 280 from Waterville to Killorglin was enhanced to improve frequency. We have seen a vast number of other routes being increased across the country. Route 278 from Fenit to Tralee has seen a new service operate seven times daily from Monday to Sunday. The route operates a peak-time and evening service for commuters and provides an additional evening service on Friday and Saturday.

As the Deputy knows, it is about the balance between the demand response and enhancing rural services. As the Indecon report shows, we are committed to a review of governance, performance and structure. We will also be influenced by extensive stakeholder engagement. I have travelled the country and met many of the companies.

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