Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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1151. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the will direct the National Transport Authority to change the licensing decision making process to allow private bus transport operators to decide what they individually view is best for increasing public transport and their own businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10483/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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Responsibility for the licensing of Public Bus Passenger Services was transferred from my Department to the National Transport Authority (NTA) in 2010, under the provisions of the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009. The NTA has published guidelines, available on its website www.nationaltransport.ie, to make the application and decision process clearer and easier for applicants by providing advice and guidance to potential licence applicants about the processes and principles of the commercial public bus licensing system. I have no plans to issue directions to the NTA regarding the licensing of individual routes.

I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.