James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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975. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on undertaking a midlands transport assessment study; and his further views on the linking up of major midland towns by rail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11602/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I am committed to supporting a well-funded public transport system into the future to ensure the public transport sector is better placed to address the transport demands of our economic recovery. I ensured that PSO funding for bus and rail services was maintained at current levels in the last Budget, the first time this has happened since 2008.

I should state that it is the policy of my Department, given continued budgetary constraints, to prioritise the maintenance of our existing infrastructure rather than embark on new projects for which funding is, unfortunately, not available.

Given the significant funding requirements, it is important that rail users and policy makers are consulted on how best to ensure that rail services continue to meet the needs of users and the contribution of rail to an efficient and effective public transport system generally. A public consultation on the role of rail is under preparation and I expect that this consultation will commence shortly.  

The National Transport Authority (NTA) is the statutory body with responsibility for overseeing the delivery of bus and rail services and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply in relation to public transport services generally in the midlands area. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.