Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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1804. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve bus services serving the Dublin 15 area; the position regarding the bus rapid transit routes for Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26519/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​The National Transport Authority (NTA) recently launched the BusConnectsinitiative which proposes a radical transformation of the bus system in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) that will involve, inter alia, the development of a network of 'next generation' bus corridors and a complete redesign of the network to be accompanied by a network of bus-based park and ride sites at strategic locations.  I am seeking additional funding for public transport investment in the mid-term review of the Capital Plan to support this initiative.

The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) 2016-2035 includes proposals for two specific Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)Schemes - Blanchardstown to UCD, and Clongriffin to Tallaght.  Funding is being made available for initial planning and design work for the Blanchardstown to UCD BRT under the Government's Capital Plan 'Building on Recovery Infrastructure & Capital Investment 2016-2021'.  I understand from the NTA that following from a recent tender competition a design team has now been appointed to progress the design and planning documentation for the scheme.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, 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.