99. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Transport the status of the review of the public consultation on the proposed 425A bus route; the status of the assessment of submissions received; the expected timeline for completing the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14894/26]

Sentiment score: 0.01

I want to raise the issue of the 425A bus route from Mountbellew to Galway city. Back in January the NTA launched a public consultation on its proposals. I would like an update as to where that public consultation is at. Has it been reviewed and assessed and where is it at? From speaking to representatives of the NTA in the Committee of Public Accounts they seemed to indicate that by the end of quarter 1, they would have an update but I would appreciate an update from the Minister today.

Sentiment score: 0.22

I really appreciate that and the manner in which the Minister has worked with me on this since I became aware of the NTA's proposals. It is important to say that absolutely nobody in my constituency has come to me saying they want to see the 425A rerouted into Athenry. Previously, the 425A was a once daily return service. It is now a four times daily service. It is working fantastically and we do not need to change it. A 416 service from Tuam to Athenry in the form of a Local Link would be fantastic but the reality is that what we are missing is an investment. We need an Athenry bus that goes directly to Galway city. Athenry is a town with a population in excess of 5,000 people. Our trains, as the Minister knows, are at capacity and we need the bus to provide an alternative form of transport for people to get into the city. That is my real ask; that Athenry gets its own, dedicated bus service.

Sentiment score: 0.11

The Minister is right. There has been such a significant investment over the past few years in public transport, active travel and trying to secure the future of our networks. Athenry had a privately-operated bus service. It pulled out essentially because the middle-day services were not feasible. There is a public service obligation, PSO, determination there. It is in place for Athenry and we need to meet it. The bus going from Athenry does not have to go directly on the motorway. It goes in by a place called Derrydonnell, over to Oranmore and into Galway City. It could be a fantastic service that covers more areas. It would be an addition of service because the rerouting of the 425A is seen as a shortcut to serve Athenry, and that cannot be the case because it would disproportionately affect people on the Galway Road. I really appreciate the Minister’s engagement on this matter.

Sentiment score: 0.22