Noel Rock (Dublin North West, Fine Gael)
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665. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will ensure more funding for the installation of electronic timetables across Dublin city in view of the fact the National Transport Authority has said plans for the expansion of the network of real time passenger information signs are currently on hold due to a lack of funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16687/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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Responsibility to develop, procure, implement, operate and maintain the Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) system is a statutory function of the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the RTPI programme continues to be rolled out by the NTA in the Greater Dublin Area and in the regional cities.

 The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2016-2035 provides a framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) over the next two decades.  The strategy includes the proposal to increase the availability of on-street RTPI at bus, BRT and Luas stops.  The NTA is preparing an Implementation Plan for the delivery of the strategy for the period 2017-2022.  Key to implementation over this period is the capital funding that will be available for investment in public transport infrastructure over the period.

There are currently over 700 RTPI signs in operation nationally displaying easy-to-read departure times and passenger information.  In addition, 24 flat screen displays showing real time information for nearby bus stops and associated transport information maps have been installed in public areas such as train stations, hospitals and universities.  I have been advised by the NTA that the balance of the 54 sites that were due to be completed under the the 2016 RTPI programme will be addressed in 2017. The further roll-out will be dependent on the availability of funding in future years and as I have stated previously, I will be seeking to increase the funding available for public transport in the review of the Capital Plan that is currently underway.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for a more detailed reply.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.