Vol. 576 No. 5
368 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Transport the position on the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists; the legal position of same; if requests to allow motorcyclists use bus lanes have been made to him; when the requests were made to him; if a decision has been made; the reason there is a delay in reaching a decision; and if a definitive ruling will be given on the request. [29978/03]
The use of bus lanes in this country is provided for in the Road Traffic, Traffic and Parking, Regulations 1997, the primary purpose of which is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. These regulations generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire services, an exemption to that limitation is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.
An overriding concern is the carrying capacity of bus lanes and the potential that their primary role to provide bus priority could be undermined if other vehicles are allowed access.
I have received many representations seeking to extend access to bus lanes from a wide range of other road users including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists.
