Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

26. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has engaged with a group (details supplied) which commissioned a study into the way that every village and town can be serviced by local transport links; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17049/22]

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.

I have not engaged directly with the referenced group but I note that they have previously submitted their proposal to the NTA. In light of the NTA's responsibilities for both the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, and public transport 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.