Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am taking this important matter on behalf of the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Paschal Donohoe.

I understand the stress that can be caused in areas where there is talk about changes to bus routes. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, as amended by the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009, the NTA is responsible for the provision of bus services. The Minister has no role in decisions regarding bus routes.

Subsidised bus services in Dublin are provided by Dublin Bus in accordance with the terms of its contract with the NTA. No changes to services can be made without the approval of the NTA. The Minister, however, has been informed by the NTA that subsidised bus services are constantly changing and evolving to better meet the needs of the travelling public and ensure best use of public funding. The NTA regularly meets with Dublin Bus to review the operation of the subsidised bus network.

Dublin Bus is developing proposals to revise the current network of services in the south-east area of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. The purpose of the proposals is to improve the public transport network in the area, providing dedicated access to Loughlinstown Hospital, helping combat traffic congestion and increasing service levels to key destinations such as Cherrywood. Routes under consideration include Nos. 7A, 7B, 8, 45A, 59, 63, and 111.

Dublin Bus presented the emerging proposals to local councillors in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area on 6 July last. Dublin Bus will also be consulting with customers and other interested parties prior to finalising the proposals for consideration and decision by the NTA.

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