Galway rural transport to be managed by new unit

The Rural Transport Programme is a Government programme to meet the transport needs of people living in rural areas.

Last year it carried out 1.3 million passenger journeys nationally.

There are currently three schemes in Galway, Bealach in Connemara and West Galway, Galway Rural Development Company runs the North East Galway Scheme and South East Galway Integrated Rural Develoment Limited.

Under new plans, Galway's rural transport scheme will be run by a single Transport Co-ordination Unit, working closely with the local authorities.

Nationally, it will mean the number of companies operating rural transport schemes will be reduced from 35 to 18 co-ordination units.

Speaking to Galway Bay fm News, Minister Alan Kelly says the new changes will improve rural transport in Galway.

Chairperson of the Rural Transport Network, Fiona O' Shea says the demand for rural transport is widening.