asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider the desirability of introducing proposals for legislation to amend the Transport Acts to enable a municipal transport service to be provided for Dublin City, and if in the meantime he will take such action as is necessary to ensure that an adequate bus service is provided by Córas Iompair Éireann for the citizens of Dublin.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Transport Service.
Having regard to the comparatively short period which has elapsed since the amalgamation which led to the establishment of Córas Iompair Éireann and the abnormal conditions which have prevailed during that period, I am satisfied that the time is not opportune to consider the desirability of introducing amending legislation for the purpose suggested.
I am advised by Córas Iompair Éireann that they have arranged to import a number of buses over the next few months with a view to improving services in Dublin and in the country.
I have been obliged, however, to inform the company that as a result of the recent serious deterioration in the supply of diesel oil, it will not be possible for some time to come to provide the additional quantities that would be required to enable the company to use the new vehicles to improve their services.
In view of the fact that there is a large surplus available on the operations of the omnibus services in Dublin and that it is not yet possible to review the position, will the Minister have regard to the fact that as soon as supplies of oil are available the Dublin citizens might be given improved services in return for the contribution they are making to the national transport scheme, particularly having regard to the fact that at peak hours buses are available and standing idle at the garages while the citizens have to wait for interminable periods for bus services?
I am aware of the position in Dublin that the Deputy has outlined and I am anxious to do anything I can to improve it. The company are certainly arranging to get additional buses and, when we have the oil, preference will be given for that purpose.
Has the Minister any statutory power of inspection or control over Córas Iompair Éireann?
I do not think I have.
The Minister has plenty of power.
Thanks for the information. Has it ever been exercised?
Yes.
If the Minister has the statutory power mentioned will he deal with the matter under that power, if necessary?
I am prepared to take any steps that I can take which are necessary for the improvement of the services.