Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

246. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will request the National Transport Authority, NTA, to ensure a minimum level of service of three trains per day is implemented for rural train services, especially the Ballybrophy to Limerick and Limerick Junction to Waterford lines as part of its public service obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16415/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling of those services.

In light of the Authority's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to ensuring a minimum level of service of three trains in rural Ireland and, in particular, the Ballybrophy to Limerick and Limerick Junction to Waterford lines, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

247. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether his Department should require the National Transport Authority, NTA, to set a minimum number of services for both regional and rural rail lines to align it with the connecting Ireland policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16416/22]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for developing an accessible, integrated and sustainable public transport network. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme which operates under the TFI Local Link brand.

The Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan is a major national public transport initiative developed by the NTA. It aims to increase public transport connectivity, particularly for people living outside the major cities and towns. It will significantly increase both the number of routes and the frequency of existing services right across the country.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities for both the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, and rail services in regional and rural areas, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.