Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 February 2017
57. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his Department's and the National Transport Authority's plans regarding a review of public transport policy, as mentioned in Realising Our Rural Potential: Action Plan for Public Transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6103/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, this proposal originates in the Programme for Government which commits to reviewing public transport policy so as to ensure services are sustainable into the future and are meeting the needs of a modern economy. It has subsequently been restated as an action in Realising our Rural Potential - Action Plan for Rural Development and includes reference to the rural transport dimension, to ensure that it meets the needs of rural communities.
I would also refer the Deputy to my Department's Statement of Strategy 2016-2019 which lists the publication of a new Public Transport Policy Statement as a key indicator of progress.
My Department plans to undertake this work this year. Development of the policy statement will take cognisance of relevant initiatives in several other areas of public policy on which Government is deeply engaged including the preparation of a new National Planning Framework, a National Mitigation Plan and a Climate Adaption Plan for the transport sector, in addition to the Action Plan for Rural Development.
