Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 21 Mar 2002

Vol. 550 No. 5

Written Answers. - Public Transport.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

87 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the number of new buses brought into service by Dublin Bus each year since 1997; the number of old buses taken out of service in that period; the net number of additional buses each year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9590/02]

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

I have been advised by Bus Átha Cliath that the number of new buses including sub-contracted buses brought into service each year since 1997 is as follows:

	1997	1998	1999	2000	2001	Total
New Buses	85	65	242	248	61	701
Buses Scrapped	51	60	142	173	33	459
Net Additions	34	5	100	75	28	242

The net number of additional buses, including subcontracted buses, was 242. The BAC fleet, including sub-contracted buses has increased by more than 20% since 1997.

This fleet modernisation programme has enabled Dublin Bus to replace old buses, in some cases, which were 18 years in service with new buses and to move to a policy of replacing buses after 10 years, in line with best international practice. In addition, all new buses purchased during 2000 and since then are to a low floor and wheelchair accessible design.