Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 475: To ask the Minister for Transport his proposals to introduce on a pilot basis acces to combined bus and cyclelanes for motorcycles; if he will provide details of his proposals in this regard; the reason motorcycles were not originally allowed access to such bus lanes; and if his attention has been drawn to possible road safety implications that may arise from such a change in the regulations. [38954/06]

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

The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. Regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing an on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.

Many representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes in relation to a wide range of other road users. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001 in consultation with the relevant agencies that took account of the physical characteristics of the vehicles seeking access, including motorcycles. The result of that review was to maintain the existing position with regard to access.

Earlier this year, the Road Safety Authority proposed that the issue of allowing motorcyclists access to bus lanes be examined. The matter is presently under consideration by my Department and other relevant agencies and all aspects of the proposal, including the safety implications, will be taken into account.