Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 111: To ask the Minister for Transport his views on a proposal (details supplied). [24105/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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It is my view that the best way to reduce congestion and to reduce fuel consumption — and consequent pollution — is to encourage people to switch from private cars to public transport. This is the principle reason for providing bus lanes and other measures to promote bus priority on our roads.

I am aware that quite a number of cities around the world have introduced High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. The results have varied greatly. While the planning, design and provision of bus lanes is a matter for local authorities as part of their general traffic management remit, I have no current plans to promote such lanes in Ireland. It is a matter for local consideration.