Vol. 512 No. 3
66 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Public Enterprise when the committee chaired by her Department to make recommendations on integrated ticketing was established; and if it will report in time to allow the EU money allocated for integrated ticketing to be taken up. [25827/99]
90 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the benefits which accrue from integrated ticketing on public transport services; when this investment will be made to facilitate introduction of integrated ticketing in Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25835/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 90 together.
Integrated ticketing aims to facilitate passengers who want or need to use two or more different services as part of their journey. It is designed to increase the attractiveness of public transport, to present it as an integrated product and to reduce the perceived inconvenience of interchange. It is part of this Government's ongoing commitment to providing better public transport services in the greater Dublin area.
A committee, comprising representatives from my Department, CIE, Dublin Bus, Iarnród Éireann, the LRT project team, and the Dublin Transportation Office was established in October 1998. Its objective is to make recommendations on an appropriate system for Dublin, taking account of the costs and benefits involved. I expect this report within the next few months.
EU funding of just over £1 million is being provided for consultancy studies associated with the work of the committee and also for capital expenditure. I am satisfied that this money will be drawn down. The capital expenditure will be in respect of facilities at the Maynooth line rail stations.
