The Connecting Ireland plan from the National Transport Authority (NTA) proposes an overall increase of 25% in rural bus services, significantly increasing public transport connectivity for people living outside major cities and towns.
Brian Leddin TD, Green Party Spokesperson for Transport, Climate Action and Environment welcomed the announcement. He said: "It is absolutely critical that we enhance our regional transport network and this plan is the first step towards improved connectivity between our rural towns and villages and our regional cities. The plan will mean that more than 70% of those living outside of cities will have access to a public transport service that provides at least three return trips each weekday to a nearby town. We will need to first implement this plan and then increase the frequency of services so that people living in or near villages have a viable alternative to using the car, while ensuring that services are fast and direct."
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In developing the Connecting Ireland Plan, the NTA engaged with a range of stakeholders including public bodies and state agencies. The next step will involve broader public consultation including information sessions with local authorities and the Oireachtas and public information webinars.
