John Bruton
Question:446 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if he will answer the second part of Parliamentary Question No. 950 of 29 January 2003, which is not addressed in his reply. [3272/03]
Written Answers. - Park and Ride Facilities.
As I stated in my reply to Question No. 950 of 29 January 2003, issues relating to the current tax incentive schemes for park and ride facilities are primarily a matter for the Minister for Finance. Statistics from local authorities on the take-up of these tax incentives are currently being compiled by my Department and will be examined in conjunction with the Department of Finance. Any changes to the tax incentive scheme would be a matter for the Minister for Finance. It is recognised that park and ride is a key element of an integrated transport system and, to this end, the Government provided specific funding for rail-based park and ride in 1999 and 2000. Park and ride facilities have also been incorporated into the planning of the Luas system. The size of the city limits the role for bus-based park and ride in Dublin. However, the pilot project being undertaken by the office of the director of traffic will be monitored to assess the potential for further projects in the future.