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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators. In addition the NTA is also responsible for decisions regarding bus routes and the type of fleet used for public transport services.
Therefore, in light of the NTA's responsibility in these matters, I have forwarded the Deputy's question in relation to the addition of double-decker buses to Route 343 Limerick-Shannon-Ennis and any plans for further expansions on that route, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.