Written answers

Tuesday, 18 February 2014

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

Bus Éireann Services

Photo of Tommy BroughanTommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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104. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the current state of Busáras; if he will support greater investment in improving Busáras for bus passengers; his position on the way Busáras could be enhanced to become a first class bus transport facility; or if a new bus station could be built in Dublin. [7617/14]

Photo of Alan KellyAlan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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Given our fiscal constraints, the main priority for transport under the Capital Investment  Plan to  2016 is to protect investment made to date and  to maintain safety standards.  

On the bus side the priority is to fund replacement PSO buses. There is also a small allocation provided to the National Transport Authority (NTA) for accessibility improvements at bus stops and bus stations. There is also some funding available to support improvements for bus passengers in the Regional Cities.

In relation to Busárus, I am advised that because of its protected status, permissible changes to the building structure are limited. The NTA has provided some funds in recent years for the provision of enhanced information displays and passenger information systems at Busáras.

I understand that discussions have taken place between the NTA and Bus Éireann in relation to the need for further improvements but that substantial funding is required to proceed with these improvements.  Given the limited financial resources currently available both within Bus Éireann and to the NTA under the current capital plan, it has not been possible for these station upgrade proposals to be advanced at the present time.  Should funds become available under the next capital plan then any contribution by the NTA would need  to have regard to the mixed use of the station for both PSO and commercial operations.  

There are no plans to construct a new bus station in Dublin at present.  However, in relation to off street parking for coaches, following a review by the NTA, a  site owned by CIE has been identified and the NTA in conjunction with CIE is currently engaging with Dublin City Council in relation to planning. Subject to approval the aim is to have  the coach park ready for use in the autumn. This  facility is targeted at coaches with a layover period in the city greater than about two hours.  

Dublin City Council and the NTA are also currently examining alternative locations for on street parking to facilitate tourist coaches as some existing spaces will be removed arising from the construction of  Luas Cross City.   Final proposals are expected to be provided shortly. 

I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA in relation to further details regarding improvements at Busáras and coach parking provision. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.

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