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.
This Government recognises the importance of accessible and efficient transport links in rural Ireland for fostering social inclusion, economic development, and overall quality of life. This is evidenced by the hugely successful Connecting Ireland public transport initiative that has implemented 185 new and enhanced services since 2022. Under this programme, in 2025, Ireland’s first ever Smart Demand Responsive Transport pilot was launched in Achill, using the ‘TFI Anseo’ app. Passengers are now able to book on-demand rides with ease, bringing the convenience of modern rideshare together with the reliability and affordability of public transport.
One of the key transport commitments in the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030 is take a “whole-of-journey” approach applying Universal Design principles in the development of infrastructure and services to improve the accessibility of our transport system across the country.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and regional bus 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.
