219. Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide, in tabular form, and by year and by county, the number of rural hackney licences that have been awarded since the scheme's inception; if he is satisfied with the uptake of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7543/15]

The regulation of the small public service vehicle sector including the issue of rural hackney licences is a matter for the National Transport Authority under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.

I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.