Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 154: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on the recent review, The Quality Bus Network, by Dublin Bus, particularly the contention contained within the report that only one of the nine bus corridors in Dublin is currently meeting its target in terms of passenger numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16689/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I assume the Deputy is referring to a report entitled Dublin Bus Network Review, prepared by MVA consultants for Dublin Bus. On the issue of QBC performance, this report is based on data and findings from the Dublin Transportation Office (DTO) Quality Bus Corridor Monitoring Report (2004), which is available on the DTO website (www.dto.ie).

There are no targets set for passenger numbers on QBCs and the Dublin Bus Network Review does not suggest that there are. However, there are other performance indicators such as journey time. The target average running speed for buses on QBCs is 20 kph. When this figure is adjusted to include dwell time at bus stops the equivalent average speed is 17.6 kph.

Two of the nine corridors achieve average speeds greater than 17.6 kph. In respect of the other corridors, the DTO, QBN Project Office and the local authorities recognise the vital importance of continuing the programme of tackling the remaining instances of bus congestion, to improve the absolute value of bus speeds, and to improve passenger trends. I am informed by the DTO that they are in discussion with the Quality Bus Network Project Office and the local authorities to address the issue and that projects are in train for the enhancement of existing QBCs. I am committed to the improvement and development of the Quality Bus Network in the Greater Dublin Area and continue to make funds available for this purpose through the Traffic Management Grants scheme.