Máirín Quill
Question:22 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if it is proposed to introduce legislation governing passenger bus services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11374/95]
Written Answers. - Bus Services.
During the period 1991-92, proposals were formulated in my Department to replace the Road Transport Act, 1932, to provide for the development of the bus industry and meet the requirements of the travelling public. These proposals envisaged the extension of competition in the passenger road transport sector on a phased and orderly basis but were not proceeded with.
It is widely accepted that there are a number of difficulties associated with the operation of the Road Transport Act, 1932.
A comprehensive review of the legislative framework is now under way. In the circumstances, it would be premature for me to speculate on its eventual outcome.
Deputies will, of course, appreciate that proposals of a regulatory nature must take account of planned investment in that sector. Accordingly, in reviewing the proposals already prepared in my Department, plans for major investment in public transport infrastructure and services in Dublin and throughout the rest of the country in the context of the National Development Plan and the Operational Programme for Transport 1994-1999 will be taken into account.
I wish to assure the Deputy that there will be a full process of consultation with all sides of the public transport sector before any new proposals are finalised for submission to Government.