Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 560: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport regarding the rural transport programme, under the new LARTIS steering group, if there will be a call for pilots on integrated transport; if so, if County Kerry will be a consideration in view of the engagement that has commenced with the Health Service Executive and the commitment of the board of management and the proven ability of the company. [31869/11]

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 561: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there is to be a cut to the rural transport programme, will this be done on phased basis to ensure continuity of front line services. [31870/11]

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 565: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the new rural transport programme will be administered through the existing structures and companies on the ground; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31945/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 560, 561 and 565 together.

Like all Government funded programmes, the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) is being considered in the context of the on-going central review of expenditure which is endeavouring to identify savings. While no decisions have been taken in the matter, it might be noted that the Programme for Government acknowledges the importance of transport for rural communities and includes a commitment to 'maintain and extend the Rural Transport Programme with other local transport services as much as is practicable'. Work in that regard is proceeding with decisions on pilot projects yet to be made.

I have received a copy of a recent Value for Money and Policy Review of the RTP which I intend to publish later this year following consideration by Government. I will also publish a pilot study on local integrated transport services and both reports will be considered in plans for the future of the RTP.