Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 115: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans he has to introduce public service contracts into the rail service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11021/04]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I set out my proposals for public transport reform in a statement to the Public Transport Partnership Forum in November 2002. In that statement I said that it was my intention to establish an independent authority to procure public transport services. I also proposed that all DART and suburban rail services in the greater Dublin area would be provided subject to a multi-annual public service contract negotiated by the independent authority with Iarnród Éireann.

In reply to recent questions, I have stated that it is now my intention that the independent authority will have a national remit and in this context it is my intention that all rail services provided by Iarnród Éireann will be subject to a public service contract with the new authority.

It is my intention to enact legislation to give effect to these and other public transport reforms during 2004.