Bus Services

Tuesday, 8 July 2025

Ceisteanna (287)

Albert Dolan

Ceist:

287. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the status of the promised bus service linking Athenry to Galway city, which was scheduled to commence in Q2 of 2025; the reason for the delay; and if he will outline a revised timeline for its introduction, given the current absence of any public bus service in Athenry and the transport needs of the hundreds of residents who rely on access to Galway for work, education, and essential services. [37787/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I recognise the importance of boosting connectivity in rural Ireland. In the new Programme for Government, Securing Ireland's Future, this Government has committed to continuing the roll-out of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.

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, any additional funding to improve public transport in rural areas would be subject to the annual Budgetary and Estimates process.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities for public transport services in county Galway, 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.