As Minister for Public and Commuter Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to the Rural Transport Programme (RTP). Following a Government Decision in January 2012, management of the RTP was assigned to the National Transport Authority (NTA) with effect from 1 April 2012. This includes responsibility for implementation of the restructuring of the RTP announced by me on 9 July 2013. The purpose of the restructuring of the RTP is to protect the provision of rural transport services into the future. I have referred your question to the NTA for direct response. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days please contact my private office.