Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 534: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the public transport services used by him since he came into office or since 2007 on official business; the destinations travelled to; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39794/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since coming into office, I have used the following public transport services within Ireland while on official business:

In travelling abroad on official business, I have used ferry and train connections, as set out in the following table, in addition to scheduled airline services.

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 535: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the public transport services used by his officials since 2007 on official business; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39822/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since 1 January 2007, Departmental staff have used bus, rail and ferry services while on official business at a cost of €148,329. In line with Department of Finance guidelines relating to official travel, the Department's policy is that staff should use public transport, wherever possible, for business travel. Taxis or cars should be used only when no suitable public transport is available.

As part of the Department's participation in the One Small Step campaign, a Workplace Travel Plan, aimed at encouraging greater use of sustainable transport options in travelling to and from work, and in the conduct of official business, has recently been launched in my Department. Through implementation of the Plan, a range of initiatives to encourage use of sustainable travel options amongst Departmental staff will continue to be put in place.