Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 September 2023
133. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if consideration will be given to investing in rural transport links and providing greater supports for individualised transport, including subsidies and allowances for people with disabilities to avail of driving lessons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40821/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to 'open' public transport services including in rural areas.
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.
My Department and the NTA are strongly committed to improving public transport services in rural areas. There has been a substantial increase in funding allocated for TFI Local Link services since 2016, going from €12.2 million in 2016 to €43m in 2023. The additional funding has enabled the introduction of over 100 new Rural Regular Service routes, as well as improvements to DRT services.
One of the key plans for enhancing the existing transport network across Ireland is under my Department and the NTA's Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which aims to develop an integrated, accessible, and sustainable network of public transport offerings across Ireland. Phase 1 was rolled out during 2022 with 38 new and enhanced services nationwide with 67 services planned for 2023. The allocation for Connecting Ireland in 2023 is €8.35m.
My remit, and that of the NTA, relates to public transport services which are ‘open’ to all. Funding for individualised ‘closed’ transport and mobility services, such as dedicated transport services and subsidies for disabled people, are outside of my public transport remit.
