Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

On behalf of the Minister for Transport, Deputy Ryan, I thank Senator Dolan for raising this important matter. The Minister and Department recognise the importance of connectivity to people who live and work in Ireland. It is key to bringing life back to our villages, towns and urban centres. As indicated in my initial response, the NTA, which is responsible for public transport in the context of the specific point the Senator raised regarding buses, is working on two proposals along the corridor with Local Link Galway. The NTA is currently reviewing public transport connections between Loughrea, Ballinasloe and Athlone, serving settlements such as Kilconnell and Ballydangan. This is planned to go to public tender soon. There is also an enhanced rail service between Dublin and Galway.

The matters Senator Dolan raised in relation to the provision of specific public transport services or routes is a matter for the NTA, but I will bring them to the attention of the Minister. I suggest that the Senator take the matter up directly with the NTA, particularly on the basis of the work it is doing.