Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 58: To ask the Minister for Transport his policy in relation to the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists; and the road safety research this policy is based upon. [12648/07]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 151: To ask the Minister for Transport his intentions to amend regulations to allow hackneys use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12649/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 151 together.

The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport and the use of bus lanes is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The 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 including hackneys. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001 and took account of the physical characteristics of the vehicles seeking access. The result of that review was to maintain the existing position.

Last year, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) carried out and presented to my Department some research in relation to motorcycle safety and proposed that the issue of allowing motorcyclists access to bus lanes on a pilot scheme basis be examined.

Following consultation with the other relevant agencies, work is now proceeding with regard to the detailed specification of pilot schemes permitting motorcyclists in bus lanes where all aspects of the RSA proposal, including any safety implications, will be taken into account. Subject to the evaluation of such pilot schemes, more widespread access to bus lanes for motorcyclists can be envisaged.