Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 1042: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for integrated ticketing by transportation companies (details supplied): if he will provide a timeframe for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22935/11]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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Responsibility to develop, procure, implement, operate and maintain the integrated ticketing system in the Greater Dublin Area became the function of the National Transport Authority (NTA) with effect from 30th September 2010.

I understand from the NTA, however, that good progress is being made on the project and it has now progressed towards the final stage of intensive testing. Luas have completed their developments and are ready to launch. Iarnród Eireann expect to conduct staff tests this month in preparation for full public launch. Intensive testing of Dublin Bus ticketing equipment has highlighted some technical difficulties which are currently being addressed.

Developments on behalf of Bus Éireann and private bus operators continue to make good progress and the current programme shows these operations commencing their integration with ITS this year.

I am liaising regularly with the NTA to ensure a successful launch and we will assess the results of this phase of testing before initiating a public launch.