Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 22: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans to enhance the rural transport option with particular reference to areas not covered by public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23222/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Thirty-seven community transport groups around the country are being funded under my Department's Rural Transport Programme (RTP) to address social exclusion in their rural areas arising from unmet public transport needs. The Programme is now operational in every county and the groups are working towards maximising coverage in their operational areas having regard to local public transport service needs and the availability of resources. One of the key strengths of the RTP is that local communities know best where the transport needs are in their rural areas and how best to address those needs. The RTP groups are, therefore, responsible for deciding on the specific services to be provided and the methods of provision.