Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise the issue of BusConnects in Limerick and the Annacotty Business Park. Recently, I attended a meeting of heads of businesses based there and of representatives from Limerick Chamber. One thing that was made clear is that 3,000 people work in the business park but there is no bus service to it. There is another business park just down the road. The nearest bus stops at least 3 km or 4 km away from the business park. For people to get out there they must drive. There is no other option unless they cycle. On a wet morning, it is a fair bit out to be cycling. I have written to the Minister. I would like the Acting Leader's support on this. It is terrible that an entire business park where 3,000 people are employed is disenfranchised. Those from the businesses said at the meeting that the first thing they do when a person applies for a job is ask whether they have a car. Anybody who does not have a car lasts for a little while and then finds it too inconvenient to get to the park. That is not a good omen. I look forward to the support of the Acting Leader.