Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 6

Written Answers. - Passenger Transport Users' Council.

Noel O'Flynn

Question:

111 Mr. O'Flynn asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will introduce legislation providing for a passenger transport users' council to represent the interests of public transport users and to provide more effective public control of public transport. [8836/99]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke)

I have no plans at present to introduce legislation providing for a passenger transport users' council. However, I am pleased to say that each of the CIE companies has recently established user groups representing people with disabilities to ensure that their particular needs with regard to public transport are taken into account.

I am conscious of the concerns of the public with regard to the public transport system. It is clear to me that the main cause of these concerns relates to the lack of investment in bus and train services over the years. I am glad to say that this Government is committed to reversing that policy and the investment needs of CIE are currently being actively addressed.