Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 June 2026
132. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department is taking to improve the availability, frequency and reliability of rural bus services, particularly those used by older persons to access essential services such as healthcare, shopping and social supports; if he will outline the plans to expand community-based or demand-responsive transport options in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46313/26]
View answerAs 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.
