466. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the number of new and enhanced Connecting Ireland services delivered in 2025 and planned for 2026 for County Cork; the passenger numbers on each service to date; the criteria used to prioritise communities for future services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56634/26]

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities 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.