Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Nov 2001

Vol. 545 No. 1

Written Answers. - Rail Services.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

67 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has engaged consultants to examine the issue of integrated ticketing on public transport; if and when she received the report; when she proposes to act on its findings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29798/01]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke):

Following independent consultancy advice on the procurement arrangements for an integrated ticketing system for the greater Dublin area, my Department in early 2001 requested the LRPO to develop an integrated ticketing project.

In August 2001, an outline project plan was agreed with the light rail project office which is proceeding with the work in that regard. The project plan is taking the project from design to launch incorporating procurement, installation, commissioning and rollout.

Consistent with this development, Dublin Bus, Iarnród Éireann and the Luas project are in the process of acquiring new ticket vending machines which will allow for the use of SMART Card technology and greater ticket integration.

In the more immediate term, as part of its programme for developing a more technological approach to ticket vending, Dublin Bus has recently launched an on-line service for the pur chase of bus tickets on all its routes. Bus Éireann will launch a similar service shortly.

An integrated ticketing system is operated on the AerDart service linking Dublin Airport by bus to the DART system. In addition, Dublin Bus and Iarnród Éireann will shortly launch integrated tickets for use on both Dublin Bus and DART services.

Question No. 68 answered with Question No. 36.

Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 49.