In recognition of the value and benefit of rural transport to many communities, the Programme for a Partnership Government undertakes to examine how best to improve integration of services in the rural bus network within regions, and proposed that a report about this should be provided to the relevant Oireachtas Committee.
This matter is being examined and developed by my Department in the context of the wider work on which it has embarked around a review of public transport policy, which is another commitment in the Programme for Government. Work on this policy review is at an early stage. My Department is currently drawing together data and information from many sources, which will inform its work.
As part of the review process, I hosted a Round Table Discussion on Public Transport Policy in May of this year. This event included a broad – though, by no means, exhaustive – range of organisations and individuals who are closely connected with the public transport sector. Both Irish Rural Link and the Rural Transport Network were represented at this event.
A public consultation will take place over the coming months on the papers and presentations from that Round Table Discussion. This consultation will further inform the ongoing review.
