Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023
128. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Transport his views on additional funding being made available for Connecting Ireland to ensure that as passenger numbers are growing on our public transport services, capacity is being optimised through additional service provision, as evidenced by the oversubscription on the 874 route from Hacketstown to Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41011/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
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, delivering the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and New Town Services.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that funding for TFI Local Link services in rural areas has increased from €12 million in 2016 to €43 million in 2023. The funding allocation for the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and New Town Services is €10 million in 2023. This has provided for the recently introduced Town services in Carlow. I am currently in discussions with Cabinet colleagues regarding funding for public transport services next year, including for Connecting Ireland, which will be announced as part of Budget 2024.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for the rollout of new services, including in County Carlow, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you regarding route 874. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
