Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 172: To ask the Minister for Finance his plans to permit public buses to use the Phoenix Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22521/08]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 173: To ask the Minister for Finance when the new car park in the Phoenix Park will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22522/08]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 174: To ask the Minister for Finance the arrangements he will put in place to manage traffic in the Phoenix Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22523/08]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 175: To ask the Minister for Finance his views on opening White's Gate in the Phoenix Park to traffic at peak times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22524/08]

Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 to 175, inclusive, together.

These questions relate to transportation issues in the Phoenix Park: Public Buses, New carpark, Traffic Management and White's Gate.

As the Deputy is aware, the Phoenix Park Transportation Study, dated September 2006, recommended a number of measures aimed at reducing the significant traffic pressures on the Park and at the same time, enhancing the Visitor experience of the Park. The current position is as follows:

Public buses: I wish to confirm that the OPW has agreed to facilitate a limited public transport service through the Park. The details of this service have still to be confirmed by Dublin Bus.

Carpark: A new carpark located off the Lord's walk adjacent to Dublin Zoo, is now open to the public from 10.00 a.m. each morning. It accommodates 260 cars and serves all Park visitors.

Shuttle Bus service: This service commenced on 2nd May 2008 for an initial pilot period of a year with provision for review and extension for a further two years. It will greatly enhance public access to the Park and reduce dependency on the car to access the Park and its many features.

Upper Glen Road: Remedial works were undertaken on a stretch of this road in April 2008.

One way traffic system at Chapelizod and Islandbridge gates: This was implemented in June 2007 together with closure of Military road to through traffic. The operation of the system in terms of safety of all Park users and enhanced environment for passive recreation, has been a tremendous success.

Chesterfield Avenue: These proposals provide for complete renewal of Chesterfield Avenue (Main Avenue) including, Upgrading of Existing Road and Pathway Surfaces, Provision of a Permanent Roundabout at Mountjoy Cross, Provision of a Pedestrian-friendly Zone in the Dublin Zoo and Parkgate Street area and Extension of the Cycle Path network.

In relation to the Planning Application, OPW received two requests for additional information from Dublin City Council, including a request for comment on the issue of providing bus lanes. Responses were issued by OPW to DCC on 21st February and 8th May 2008 respectively.

Revised traffic layout at Laurel Lawn (adjacent to Gough roundabout, Dublin Zoo and Garda HQ): The proposal involves a safer traffic flow system at this busy area and also incorporates some parking for coaches (Dublin Zoo). The contract has commenced and is being undertaken in phases to minimise disruption to the public.

Upgrade of Dublin Zoo entrance road: It is proposed to implement these works, which include universal access, later in the year.

Mountjoy junction: A temporary roundabout was introduced at this busy junction in 2006.

Cycle Lanes and Footpaths: These networks have been significantly extended in the past few years.

Bicycle Hire: Following a pilot scheme last year, which proved very popular, the concession was put out to tender and the concession was awarded in March 2008.

Traffic calming: Traffic calming measures have been introduced on the Back (North) Road.

White's Gate: There are no plans to re-open any closed gates or roads in the Phoenix Park. These gates and roads were originally closed for safety reasons and have achieved the objectives of reducing traffic pressures, reducing accidents and enhancing the visitor experience of the Park amenities.