896. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding allocation under the rural transport programme in each of the years 2018, 2019 and to date in 2020, by county in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11620/20]

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) which has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) which now operates under the Local Link brand.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities in this matter, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.