Steps to provide improved transport links across west Mayo

A Mayo TD has been informed that consideration is being given to improving transport links between Westport, Louisburgh and Achill.

In response to a parliamentary question by Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh, Transport Minister Eamon Ryan stated: "The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.

"The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including delivering the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, which is a major national public transport initiative with the aim of increasing public transport connectivity, particularly for people living outside the major cities and towns.

"In light of the NTA's responsibilities for the rollout of services under the Connecting Ireland, including the reconfiguration of routes 450 and 440, to provide better levels of service on a new alignment between Louisburgh, Westport and Achill and return, seven days a week, I have referred the matter to the NTA."

It is hoped a positive response will be forthcoming within a short time.