Dan Neville
Question:83 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to expand the development of rural transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18338/02]
Written Answers. - Public Transport.
Dan Neville
Question:134 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the development of the RTI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18340/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 134 together.
There is funding provided in the national development plan for public transport initiatives in rural areas on a pilot basis. This scheme, known as the rural transport initiative, was developed in my Department and launched by my predecessor in 2001, following a nation-wide consultation process. The RTI is being managed by area development management, ADM, on behalf of my Department. To date eight groups have received funding for transport operations while projects from a further 26 groups are being assessed for funding.
The main purpose of the RTI is to promote the development of a range of innovative pilot community based public transport projects in rural areas that would help to contribute to the development of rural public transport policy for the country as a whole. Some €3 million will be spent on the RTI this year and a similar amount is earmarked for 2003 when the pilot initiative is due to end.
Also in 2001 an interdepartmental committee, under the chairmanship of my Department, was established with the remit of bringing forward options for the development of rural public transport policy. The committee commissioned a study on this subject which, I understand, is now nearing completion and I am looking forward to receiving the committee's fresh ideas in this area. I expect to be presented with the findings of the study before the end of the year. This study, together with the experience gained from the RTI, will enable me to formulate appropriate policies for rural transport for the future.
Question No. 84 answered with Question No. 80.