Overhaul of Rural Transport Programme announced

18 new Transport co-ordination units have been announced across the country this morning as part of a major overhaul of the Rural Transport Programme.

It is part of a major restructuring of the programme outlined in a new report published today ‘Strengthening Connections in Rural Ireland’ launched by the Public Transport Minister, Alan Kelly.

The new units will be based in local authorities and will co-ordinate the running of transport services within their area.

The service points will address the transport needs of local communities and will be staffed by personnel from the existing 35 rural transport programme companies already operating the programme.

Minister Kelly said the overhaul will provide a "sustainable future" for the service.