Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 314: To ask the Minister for Transport if animal rescue ambulances can use the quality bus corridors when transporting sick or rescued animals to and from their veterinary units such as the Cat Protection Society or any other animal societies that may need to hurry their animals for medical attention. [20369/10]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The current rules governing use of bus lanes were established through the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997-1998. Large public service vehicles (buses) are permitted to use all bus lanes. Several exemptions are provided in the regulations. Pedal cyclists are regarded as being vulnerable road users and, on road safety grounds, are permitted to use with-flow bus lanes. Taxis are available for hire on-street to the public at large and are regarded as being an element of the public transport service. They are, accordingly, permitted to use with-flow bus lanes.

Emergency services - Gardaí, fire brigade and ambulances for persons – may also avail of bus lanes when in performance of their duties. These services are, like bus services, for the benefit of the general public.

I have no proposals to extend further the types of vehicles permitted to use bus lanes.