Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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661. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his policy priorities in relation to the provision of transport services by land here; the particular policy objectives he hopes to achieve in this regard during his term in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6070/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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In general terms, my policy objective is to ensure that with an accessible, integrated, well-funded, high quality and efficient transport system, public transport becomes a viable and popular alternative to travel by car.

In terms of policy priorities, as the Deputy may be aware, the Programme for Government contains a commitment to reviewing public transport policy so as to ensure services are sustainable into the future and are meeting the needs of a modern economy. My Department's Statement of Strategy 2016-2019 lists publication of a new Public Transport Policy Statement as a key indicator of progress.

There are a number of important initiatives already underway across Government which will influence the Policy Statement and ultimately the provision of transport services across the country, including the development of a new National Planning Framework, a National Mitigation Plan and a Climate Adaption Plan for the transport sector.

There are a number of other key considerations and issues which will have a bearing on the development of policy. We will have to deliver a step change in the funding of public transport if we are to deliver and maintain a well-functioning transport system that will support economic recovery and deliver modal shift. I will be ensuring that a strong case in this regard is made as part of Mid-Term Review of Capital Investment and the Expenditure Review. Furthermore, we must get the balance right in relation to regional and rural transport services and the associated investment. Finally, the results of the public consultation on the Rail Review 2016 will be published and a rail strategy will be developed.

While all of these considerations are important, I'm clear as to whom public transport policy should be about- the ordinary citizen. Placing the citizen at the heart of our policy will allow us to realise the true potential of public transport and allow it to play its full role in promoting both social progress and economic prosperity.