Bus Services

Thursday, 11 June 2026

Questions (157)

Paul Lawless

Question:

157. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if consideration will be given to providing a Local Link or similar rural transport service to connect residents in Bohola, Swinford and Foxford with essential services such as schools, churches, community centres and local towns, particularly for older people and those without access to private transport; and if funding or pilot schemes are being considered to address this gap in public transport provision. [44723/26]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities 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.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.