Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann report regularly on progress made in the implementation of the recommendations of the Deloitte report on the cost and efficiency review of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann.

In line with the recommendations of the report and taking account of the need to reduce its operating deficit, Dublin Bus is redesigning its network based on the most recent pattern of demand and on reducing the number of variations of bus routes. It is also working on eliminating unnecessary duplication of services, creating even headways to improve reliability and reduce the potential for "bunching" of services.

Dublin Bus has commenced the roll-out of its automatic vehicle location, AVL, system and full implementation on the Dublin Bus fleet is expected to be completed towards the end of 2010. The information from the AVL system will be used on the real time passenger information, RTPI, units which are being procured and managed by Dublin City Council. In 2010, prior to installation of on-street signage, Dublin Bus will commence provision of RTPI on the Internet and on mobile telephones.

Bus Éireann is engaged with Pobal, the HSE, the Irish Wheelchair Association, the Department of Education and my Department in co-ordinating the better integration of various services provided by Bus Éireann, the rural transport programme and the HSE. Pilot projects currently under way will be evaluated with a view to mainstreaming across the country.

Bus Éireann has also expanded the use of double deck buses and coaches and have undertaken a "Use the Bus" type marketing campaign to increase passenger numbers

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