Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 513: To ask the Minister for Transport the steps that are in place to co-ordinate new and existing bus routes with proposed metro stops; and the reason this does not form part of the public consultation on the metro north route. [15193/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Rail Procurement Agency, RPA, is engaged in a public consultation process on route options for the metro north line. The final route and location of metro stops will be defined through this public consultation and the statutory approval processes.

I understand the RPA is meeting key stakeholders, including bus operators, to discuss all issues relating to the proposed metro routes as part of the consultation process.

Given that a major focus of Transport 21 is the integration of services of various modes, I understand that the various operators will endeavour to ensure optimum integration between metro, Luas, bus and rail services.

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 514: To ask the Minister for Transport his decision on the request from Dublin Bus for 425 extra buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15194/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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My Department has not received a request from Dublin Bus for funding for 425 extra buses.

Dublin Bus submitted an application for funding to me on 20 January 2006 for additional fleet requirements of 200 buses over the period 2006 and 2007. My Department is examining this application in the context of Transport 21, the future bus needs of the Dublin Area, and the bus network review.

I will decide on the application when the assessment has been completed and having regard to the outcome of my deliberations on the reform of the bus market, which I intend to conclude in the coming weeks.