As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The independent Transport Regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of those services.
However, it should be noted that all commercial transport operators are responsible for managing their own services. In addition, if a commercial operator decides to withdraw their services, the NTA will assess if there is loss of connectivity and will consider whether there is a need to provide additional public service obligation services in the affected areas.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area I have forwarded the Deputy’s question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.