Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 255: To ask the Minister for Transport the progress made in relation to the programme for Government proposals to build on the success to date of the rural transport initiative and extend the rural transport programme nationwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28628/08]

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 264: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on whether the rural transport scheme is operating efficiently; if it meets the needs of rural communities; if he is considering policy initiatives in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28791/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 255 and 264 together.

2008 is the first full year of operation for the Rural Transport Programme (RTP). The Programme, which was launched in February 2007, is putting the former pilot Rural Transport Initiative on a mainstreamed basis with significantly increased funding and is providing for additional services together with expanded area coverage.

Pobal, which administers the RTP on behalf of my Department, is developing the Programme on a phased basis in consultation with individual RTP groups, with a goal of achieving nation-wide coverage in due course in line with Government policy. I am satisfied that the arrangements being put in place by Pobal in that regard take account of value for money and efficiency issues.

It is planned that by end-2008, RTP Groups will be operational in every county and will be working towards maximising coverage in their operational areas. At present, County Louth is the only county without an operational scheme although preparatory work in that regard is, I understand, at an advanced stage.

One of the strengths of the RTP is that it involves local groups that know their local communities' needs. Under the Programme, rural community transport groups, working with Pobal, are responsible for deciding on the specific services to be provided and the methods of provision.