Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, together with the National Transport Authority (NTA) launched the ambitious ‘Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan for 2023’ last week.
In this plan 67 new or enhanced Connecting Ireland bus services were proposed, which will strengthen existing services and connect more towns and town lands nationwide.
The minister also announced that an investment of €8.5m was planned for the Connecting Ireland bus services plan. In 2022 the investment was almost €4m so 2023 will see a doubling of the commitment by government to the development of our national transport infrastructure.
With public transport usage figures returning to pre-Covid levels, improved and enhanced services will strengthen the public’s confidence in our transport network, making it easier for people to choose more sustainable transport options. A win-win for our National Sustainable Mobility Policy commitment to reach net zero by 2050.
‘’We know from last year’s statistics that people respond positively to new routes and services, backed up by our new cheaper fares. Young people, in particular, are choosing to use public transport more which is great. It’s more convenient, it’s more accessible and frequent than it’s been and it’s cheaper than driving and paying for a parking spot all day in college or school. The more people choose public transport the better it is for our environment as well. Public transport, both rural and urban, is a key to Ireland meeting our emissions targets.” ,Minister Eamon Ryan.
For more information see: Connecting Ireland Phase-2 Implementation Plan 2023 and the National Sustainable Mobility Policy
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