Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

According to the Goodbody report, there are 394 small public service vehicles in Tipperary, 503 in Clare and 1,231 in Galway, which borders Tipperary. There are 262 in Laois and 289 in Carlow. I do not see the need for area licensing and I oppose its reintroduction as I do not see it as necessary.

The Minister of State is interested in rural transport and he suggested the use of the school bus service when he was here previously. I showed my support then and I still support that. However, I do not believe area licensing is the way to solve the rural transport problem. The idea of the school bus service being available during the day and at other times is well worth developing and I support him on that, but I do not wish to withdraw the amendment on area licensing.