James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 70: To ask the Minister for Transport the number of written warnings he has given State funded transport operators for anti-competitive practices since 2000 to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21229/09]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 74: To ask the Minister for Transport the number of outstanding accusations of anti-competitive practices by State funded transport operators he is currently investigating; when he expects a determination for each complaint; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21230/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 74 together.

Since 2000 my Department has received 22 complaints in relation to anti-competitive practices by State funded transport operators.

In eight of the cases my Department issued written warnings to State funded transport operators. All of the cases have been resolved apart from one, which is ongoing. It is envisaged that this investigation will be concluded shortly.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 71: To ask the Minister for Transport his priorities to encourage commuters onto public rail and bus transport; the extent to which efforts have been made to identify the reasons most likely to encourage the public in this direction such as free parking, adequate bus shelters or other steps, other than punitive measures likely to be most helpful in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21241/09]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 237: To ask the Minister for Transport if studies have been done to identify the most compelling reasons for commuters to opt for bus and rail services in north Kildare and throughout the commuter belt; if punctuality, frequency of service, reliability, parking, adequate and safe waiting areas such as bus shelters and accommodation at rail stations have been studied; his plans to address these issues directly or in the context of Transport 21; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21530/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 237 together.

The priorities of the Government in relation to further improving and encouraging the greater use of public transport services is set out in the Government's sustainable transport policy, Smarter Travel published in February 2009.

It is clear from the public consultation undertaken for this policy document that among the key issues in promoting greater public transport use, in Co. Kildare and elsewhere, are increased capacity and improved quality together with the other factors referred to by the Deputy. Smarter Travel accordingly provides for increased public transport provision, better integration between modes, integrated ticketing and the availability of better travel information.

Investment in the projects under Transport 21 are being pursued in a manner consistent with these objectives and by the relevant agencies involved in the delivery of these projects.