261. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if funding will be provided for a local link service in County Kerry for the active retired group in the Abbeydorney/Kilflynn area. [65079/26]

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.

Kerry has seen a significant investment in rural transport in recent years with funding increasing by 32% between 2024 and 2025, to over €6.3m. Passenger numbers on Rural Regular Service routes in Kerry also increased by 51% from 2024 to 2025.

Ireland’s public transport system is experiencing growing passenger demand, worsening urban congestion, combined with significant workforce shortages, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers.

The focus for 2026 is on stabilising the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that were already underway, including the recent Mullingar town service.

Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible. Decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.

As with all such measures, further expansion of new and enhanced routes will be subject to funding and the upcoming 2027 Estimates Process discussions.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring 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.