Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 73: To ask the Minister for Transport the position regarding the recommendations of the Deloitte and Touche report on efficiencies in the bus sector; the timeframe for the implementation of all the recommendations; the level at which Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann fleets should be maintained in order to provide the optimum service to commuters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17863/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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In line with the recommendations of the Deloitte report and taking account of the need to reduce its operating deficit, Dublin Bus is undertaking a redesign of its network based on the most recent pattern of demand and on reducing the number of variations of bus routes. It is also working on eliminating unnecessary duplication of services, creating even headways to improve reliability and reduce the potential for "bunching" of services.

Dublin Bus has commenced the roll out of its Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) System and full implementation on the Dublin Bus fleet is expected to be completed towards the end of 2010. The information from the AVL System will be used on the Real Time Passenger Information units which are being procured and managed by Dublin City Council.

Prior to installation of on street signage this year Dublin Bus will commence provision of Real Time Passenger Information on the Internet and on mobile phones.

In the case of Bus Éireann the Deloitte report concluded that the scope for cost savings is limited as the current network design and schedules are largely efficient. In line with the recommendations of the report Bus Éireann is engaged with Pobal, the HSE, the Irish Wheelchair Association, the Department of Education and my Department in co-ordinating the better integration of various services provided by Bus Éireann, the Rural Transport programme and the HSE. Pilot projects currently underway will be evaluated with a view to mainstreaming across the country. us Éireann has also expanded the use of double deck buses and coaches and have undertaken a "Use the Bus" type marketing campaign to increase passenger carryings.

It is a matter for the bus companies themselves in conjunction with the National Transport Authority to decide on the level of buses maintained in their fleets.