asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that, since the closing of the branch railway line serving them, the towns of Tallow, Lismore and Cappoquin are entirely without transport; and if, in the circumstances, he will direct Córas Iompair Éireann to operate a bus service from Fermoy, through these towns to Dungarvan and vice versa, so that the inhabitants of these towns will be enabled to connect with the long-distance bus services passing through Fermoy and Dungarvan, respectively.

I am aware that owing to the unavoidable curtailment of rail services many towns, including those mentioned, have been deprived of their only means of transport. The demands on the company's existing omnibus services are already extremely heavy and I am advised that a vehicle to provide the service requested is not available.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that great inconvenience has been caused to local people through the closing down of the branch railway line between Tralee and Castleisland; and if he will direct Córas Iompair Éireann to provide a bus service on this route at the earliest possible moment.

I am advised that Córas Iompair Éireann are aware of the hardship caused by the lack of public transport services to Castleisland and that they intend to provide a bus service as soon as a vehicle can be made available.