As the Deputy may be aware, the Programme for Government contains a commitment to reviewing public transport policy so as to ensure services are sustainable into the future and are meeting the needs of a modern economy. My Department's Statement of Strategy 2016-2019 lists the publication of a new Public Transport Policy Statement as a key indicator of progress. My Department plans to undertake this work later this year.
The Statement will take cognisance of relevant initiatives in several other areas of public policy on which the Government is already deeply engaged including the preparation of a new National Planning Framework (NPF), the Action Plan for Rural Development and a National Mitigation Plan and Climate Adaption Paper for the transport sector. The new NPF in particular will influence how national transport objectives are achieved in our regions, cities, towns and rural areas. In terms of funding, we must get the balance right in relation to regional and rural transport services and the associated investment. I will be ensuring that a strong case in this regard is made as part of the Mid-Term Review of the Government's Capital Plan in 2017.
The precise nature and detailed content of the new Public Transport Policy Statement has yet to be scoped out. However, I am clear as to whom public transport should be about - the ordinary citizen - regardless of who the service is provided by. Placing the citizen at the heart of our policy will allow us to realise the true potential of public transport, allow it to play its full role in promoting social progress and economic prosperity and ensure that a quality service is provided to the customer.
