Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I am seeking a debate and requesting a response from the Minister on three matters. First, why are those bus lanes that are unoccupied at present not being opened up for use to other buses and cars? Second, if the affected routes are not going to be used by Dublin Bus, tenders should be invited from other operators in respect of their use in order that we might ensure passengers on the northside of Dublin are not held hostage as a result of the company's inability to make two routes work. Third, I can think of few other issues that illustrate the need for a strong and powerful Dublin transport authority to be put in place. Such an authority would be in a position to intervene quickly in matters of this nature and to encourage other agencies and bodies to do so as well. As a result, we might avoid situations where 60,000 people are obliged to stand at bus stops and wait while nothing turns up.