Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 9 October 2024
25. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Transport if the National Transport Authority’s once-off grant scheme for rural transport, which ended in 2020, will be reinstated; if there are any other funding streams to alleviate a gap in transport that could lead to social exclusion or undue hardship for individuals and groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40390/24]
View answerAs 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 securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including TFI Local Link services and the rollout of services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.
As with all plans or schemes, any additional funding would be subject to the annual Budgetary and Estimates process.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for public transport services in County Mayo, 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.
