Bernard J. Durkan
Question:120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce transport costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23545/02]
Vol. 558 No. 1
120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce transport costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23545/02]
402 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce travel times in the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23771/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 402 together.
Within the framework of the national development plan a wide range of initiatives have been taken to upgrade Dublin's transport infrastructure and services and reduce congestion and associated costs. The national development plan provides for investment of approximately €2 billion in public transport and traffic management in the greater Dublin area in the period to 2006.
Since 1997, demonstrable improvements in public transport arrangements and services have been implemented. Dublin Bus has purchased over 600 new buses. Bus Éireann has increased its capacity on GDA commuter routes by 40%. There are now nine QBCs in place in Dublin and work is continuing on further routes. Some 160 km of dedicated cycle ways have been provided. Traffic management and control systems have been upgraded. Major capacity improvements have been made to rail services. Progress has been made on developing the Luas system.