asked the Miniister for Tourism and Transport if he has satisfied himself that the existing public transport system in Dublin meets the commitment given by the Government to provide efficient public transport to the city suburbs; if he intends to take any steps to improve the quality of the public transport system in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Greater Dublin Area Transport.
31.
The DART and other existing rail suburban services in the Dublin area are satisfactory. On the other hand, some of the bus services are not giving the same degree of satisfaction as regards level and quality of service. I am informed by CIE that the bus situation should improve dramatically with the completion of the programme for one-person-operation and the introduction of its new ticketing system.
As explained in reply to other questions on to-day's Order Paper, the board of CIE, in response to the Government direction of October, 1987, has submitted new investment plans for approval. The proposals envisage improved commuter diesel rail services from Maynooth to the city, a new diesel rail commuter service from Clondalkin to the city and the provision of feeder bus services in the rail catchment areas. On the bus side, CIE propose to provide new services on a number of peripheral routes, local minibus services in certain suburbs, the satellite towns and some city areas and limited-stop services to the city on certain longer journeys. These investment plans are being examined in my Department.