Rural Transport Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 March 2017

Tuesday, 7 March 2017

Ceisteanna (46)

Ruth Coppinger

Ceist:

46. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she has made representations to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an increased subsidy to Bus Éireann and to the Minister for Social Protection for an increased contribution to cover the cost of free travel in order to safeguard rural public transport connectivity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11748/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

While I acknowledge the importance of public transport in support ing the connectivity of people living in rural areas, policy responsibility for public transport is a matter for the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and I have no function in this area.

I have not made representations to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport or to the Minister for Social Protection in relation to the issues raised by the Deputy.