On page 134 of the programme for Government it is promised to deliver a decent public transport system, which is essential in the everyday lives of many citizens and in reducing social isolation. I heard the Minister earlier respond to and dismiss the concerns of my constituency colleague about the Government's flagship project, BusConnects. I ask that the valid concerns about the bus route changes not be dismissed. The changes would increase social exclusion in some parts of Dublin such as in areas with a high concentration of elderly and disabled persons or persons on low incomes. If the plan is allowed to go ahead, there will be an increase in the levels of social exclusion.

Does the Minister expect that legislation will have to be introduced to change the public service obligation Dublin Bus, the National Transport Authority, NTA, and the Government have with respect to public transport systems in this city?

I am surprised the Deputy heard me dissing people's concerns this morning because on a number of occasions I have welcomed, and I do so again now, people's comments on the flagship changes being proposed by the NTA. We welcome them because there is no monopoly on wisdom, not in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, in my Department or on any benches in this House. The reason we have public consultation is to improve the plan or entirely change it to suit the people's needs because public service is what it is about in terms of improving the efficiency and capacity of that public service to serve the public. The reason we are having public consultation and meetings the length and breadth of the city, and in parts of my county that are serviced by this particular public transport system, is to listen to and heed concerns, objections and positive comments about the changes being proposed.