Mr. Paddy Doherty:

A concern was raised about service levels. We have undertaken a substantial reconstruction of the Network Direct project. That process has reached the point at which it must look forward. Our priorities are to anticipate next winter, when we might have capacity issues, and to determine where to make further enhancements of the network. We are moving on from the old phase.

There are two dimensions to the Luas issue, the first of which is planning for when the work starts. Some small-scale works are under way on Dawson Street, Marlborough Street and Dominick Street, but the real action will not kick in until the first quarter of 2014, when there will be some movement in our routes. We are working closely with the NTA and Dublin City Council on devising plans to maintain access to stops as far as possible and to maintain the movement of vehicles on alternative routes so that we do not lose time on our schedules. This work has not been concluded. When the works commence, we have an agreement to monitor the outcomes jointly with the NTA. If there are consequences we must face up to them and work through them. The essential work being undertaken now is the preparation, in which regard we are active. The NTA and Dublin City Council are supportive in devising plans.