Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 175: To ask the Minister for Transport if action is being taken following the removal of the derogation on excise duties in respect of fuel for buses since 1 November 2008. [42944/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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As already stated in my answer to Question numbers 28 and 33 on 1 October last and in further question answered on 4 November, the Finance Act 2008 provides for the removal of excise duty reliefs in the bus sector with effect from I November 2008. Since this is in line with our EU obligations, there is no power to restore the scheme.

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 176: To ask the Minister for Transport if additional bus route licences were sought for the Nos. 37, 38 and 39 Dublin Bus routes; if they were granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42983/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Dublin Bus is not subject to the licensing regime under the Road Transport Act 1932. The initiation or alteration of a bus service by the Company is, however, subject to compliance with a requirement to give advance notice to my Department and to compliance with the provisions of Section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 concerning competition with licensed private operators.

My Department received a proposal from Dublin Bus on 1st May, 2008 for changes to its Route 37. Following an initial examination, which included consultation with Dublin Bus, my Department deemed that the proposal would give rise to competition with an existing licensed service. Accordingly, my Department advised Dublin Bus on 9th June, 2008 that an application in accordance with Section 25 of the Transport Act, 1958 was required should the Company wish to pursue the introduction of the change. Dublin Bus subsequently sent a revised proposal for this route to my Department and also proposals for alterations to routes 38 and 39. My Department is currently considering these proposals and expects to revert to the Company in this regard shortly.