Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
60. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport his views on providing more flexibility of stops on rural bus routes; if he will provide an update on the additional stops on the 432 route; if full flexibility will be allowed for on this route in order that passengers can request stops as needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22109/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI want to assure the Deputy that I recognise that transport connectivity is hugely important for people who live and work in Ireland and it is key to bringing life back into our villages, towns and urban centres. I am strongly committed to providing all citizens with safe, reliable and realistic sustainable mobility options, and our new Connecting Ireland programme plays a key role in the achievement of this goal.
The National Transport Authority have advised that existing and proposed stops for new Connecting Ireland Local Link regular PSO bus services are identified by the Galway Local Link office and the NTA, in consultation with the relevant Local Authority. To this end, the NTA is aware that there are significant coverage gaps along the new Connecting Ireland regular bus routes, and have been actively working with Local Link Galway to provide additional stop locations.
However, this is subject to agreement with the Local Authority, as they are statutorily responsible for approving new bus stops. The NTA's current policy is that regular PSO services should only pick up or set down passengers at officially sanctioned stopping locations for safety reasons.
In relation to the Deputy's query regarding the 432 service, the NTA have advised that this was a new service launched in November 2022 with three return services per day between Clifden, Carna and Carraroe. The NTA has further advised that Galway Local Link is currently trialling additional stops on the Local Link 432 alignment. Finally, the NTA has agreed with Galway Local Link to operate smaller buses on this route to allow for a more flexible operation of services.
I think the steps being taken demonstrate a real willingness to work with local communities through the Local Link structure to try and adapt services as they are rolled out to better serve local needs. I'd be happy to hear any specific suggestions the Deputy might have on the issue.
