Jerry Buttimer (Cork South-Central, Fine Gael)

There is no excuse for people missing buses or buses leaving before the scheduled time. It goes back to Deputy Currie’s point about real-time information. The important point is that we have an increase in demand. There is a real commitment by the Government to ensure that the services we operate, particularly in the areas the Deputy mentioned, meet the need. Again, as I said to the Deputy, I will engage with the Deputy, the NTA and Local Link to ensure that we see services and accessibility as part of what he spoke about tonight. It is not about discommoding people but rather, offering accessibility and connectivity, as well as having that choice which we have not seen up to now.

As Minister of State with responsibility for rural transport, it is a core priority of mine and of the Department to ensure that commitments in terms of enhancing rural transport are met. I will happily engage with the Deputy further on the matter.

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