Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy will be aware, I do not have an operational role in Dublin Bus. As such, a meeting would be more appropriate with the management of Dublin Bus rather than with me and I am happy facilitate that for the group.

I generally support Dublin Bus efforts to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness under the Network Direct programme. The Deloitte report on the cost and efficiency of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann identified significant scope for the redesign and more efficient operation of the Dublin Bus network to provide a more attractive service to existing and potential users. The redesign would achieve more frequent, streamlined and reliable services. Following the publication of the report, Dublin Bus undertook an extensive review of its bus network and announced plans for the reorganisation of routes and timetables.

Given the losses recorded by Dublin Bus in 2010, and further reductions in the PSO subvention due over the coming years, it is important that the Deloitte report and the Network Direct programme are fully delivered upon to ensure the viability of the service.

During the review Dublin Bus has consulted key stakeholders, customers and local representatives. The redesigned routings are being introduced on a phased basis to allow for a manageable and orderly process to take place and are expected to be completed by late summer of this year.

See this speech in context