As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
However, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public transport passenger services nationally, including the provision of bus services in County Clare. The NTA also has responsibility, since 2012, for managing the Rural Transport Programme, which now operates under the Local Link brand.
The Deputy raised this issue with me by way of Topical Issue on 5 July last and I refer him to my response on that occasion. I undertook to revert to the Deputy on certain matters and I have referred those to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.