Vol. 562 No. 4
359 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there will be considerable concern in Tallaght, which now awaits the arrival of Luas, at suggestions that commuters will be charged for park and ride facilities at stations; the actions he proposes in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6091/03]
362 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the action he intends to take to prohibit Irish Rail from placing car park charges in the vicinity of DART stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6112/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 359 and 362 together.
It is my view that charging for parking at DART stations would be contrary to Government policy of encouraging commuters to use public transport. Following discussions with CIE it has been agreed that the introduction of charges for commuters will not proceed at parking sites owned by Iarnród Éireann.
I have no objection to CIE proceeding with the introduction of charges for non-commuters using the parking facilities at stations and as a result limiting the spaces available for those wishing to travel by train.
I have also asked the Railway Procurement Agency, the body with responsibility for Luas, to ensure that no charges will apply to commuters using State owned park and ride facilities for the new Luas light rail system when services commence in 2004. The park and ride facilities at Tallaght and Ballally are privately owned and the question of charging for these facilities will be discussed between the property owners and the RPA.
