Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 409: To ask the Minister for Transport his plans for improvement of the public transport system servicing Harold's Cross, Kimmage, Crumlin, Walkinstown, Terenure and Templeogue; if the traffic and transport requirements of these areas are being addressed under the Transport 21 proposals; if so, the timeframe which applies to the commencement dates for those plans; if his attention has been drawn to the serious traffic problems in these areas at present; his plans to address the traffic problems in the event that these areas are not included in the Transport 21 agenda up to 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34256/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Under Transport 21, the greater Dublin area will benefit from the development of a fully integrated network of bus and rail services that will facilitate easy interchange by public transport users. The areas referred to by the Deputy will continue to be served by the bus which will play a crucial role in the capital's public transport system under Transport 21.

In this regard Transport 21 will put a greater focus on the development of orbital, feeder and local services. It is important to point out that it is not a question of bus or rail, but of using both modes to effectively complement each other to maximise the passenger-carrying capacity and availability of public transport. Overall we will see the capacity of the bus network increase by 60% over the lifetime of Transport 21. This will of course bring significant benefits to commuters throughout the greater Dublin area.

In light of the planned investment under Transport 21, I have already asked Dublin Bus to review its network with a view to meeting the immediate and short-term requirement for additional public transport in Dublin and to examine the most effective means of expanding bus services in the short, medium and long term and it is to report to me early in the new year.

Transport 21 also contains a significant level of funding for traffic management measures in the greater Dublin area. These measures will include the construction of more quality bus corridors, QBCs, cycle paths, improved pedestrian facilities and traffic management support systems. The delivery of additional bus capacity and QBCs over the lifetime of Transport 21 will improve the overall efficiency and quality of the bus network throughout the city.