955. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve the bus services to Ashbourne and Ratoath, County Meath, in terms of reliability and cost comparison with other locations equidistant from Dublin; if he is satisfied that the Bus Éireann 103 service is meeting the terms of its contract obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45291/19]

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland. The issues raised are matters for the National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Bus Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.