Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would like to answer the Deputy's question as directly as possible. It is desirable. The Deputy is looking for public transport solutions in Cork city which will include light rail and bus rapid transit. I will say unequivocally that they are not ruled out. I do not want to make commitments. The Deputy knows it is foolish to make commitments under the financial constraints with which we work. The National Transport Authority, NTA, has taken the lead in looking at this and the transport strategy. These solutions are certainly not ruled out and I would agree with the Deputy that such systems are desirable. He will be aware that the NTA has made it clear, as have I, that while BusConnects is starting in Dublin, the intention if it is successful is to expand it to other cities, which should include Cork. I would address exactly the same principles and have the same enthusiasm for any project which is successful or necessary in Dublin or in Cork, and such projects should be promoted. It is an indication of our goodwill for this that we and communities are putting so much money into BusConnects in Dublin with the intention of expanding it to other cities as soon as possible.

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