Vol. 465 No. 6
311 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he will convey to the authorities in charge of the light rail transit proposals his concern at reports that residents groups requesting meetings with Luas for consultation purposes are being told by the Luas public relations representatives that public representatives are to be excluded from the meetings (details supplied). [10397/96]
When I launched the public consultation process last December I stressed that the approach should be rigorous, transparently fair and fully open. I specifically identified the vital role which elected representatives would have to play in the process both by contributing to the debate and by encouraging local people to participate fully and air their views. I have repeated this message to CIÉ on a number of occasions since. I am satisfied it would be misleading to suggest that CIÉ or its public relations consultants is pursuing a policy of excluding public representatives from meetings to discuss the proposed light rail network. I have been assured by CIÉ that this is not the case and that everyone is welcome to attend public meetings arranged by them as part of the public consultation programme on light rail.
The process will, however, also call for more specific meetings with smaller groups and I understand that the Deputy's question refers to such a meeting which is being specially convened by CIÉ at Heuston Station to facilitate discussion of matters, including matters of a personal nature, of concern to a particular group of residents.
