Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Feb 2003

Vol. 562 No. 1

Written Answers - Public Transport.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

422 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No 443 of 11 February 2003, the length of time Bus Éireann had been operating the route in question; the communication which Bus Éireann had with his Department concerning the commencement of this route; the response from his Department; the steps he will take to ensure that the proven customer demand for the service which has ceased will now be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5556/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The specific Bus Éireann service which was the subject of Parliamentary Question No. 443 on 11 February 2003 commenced on 9 July 2000.

The organisation and commencement of new services is a day to day matter for Bus Éireann. However since 10 January 2001, the company is required to notify my Department at least four weeks in advance of the commencement of proposed new services or proposed amendments to existing services.

In terms of demand for services on the route, a licensed private operator recommenced services on the Cavan to Dublin route in January 2003. I am also considering an application from Bus Éireann for consent under section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 to operate the services that the company was directed to cease with effect from 31 December 2002. Following completion of the steps outlined in my response to Question No. 443 on 11 February, I hope to be in a position to make a decision on the application.