Public Transport Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2013

Tuesday, 14 May 2013

Questions (735)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

735. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cost-benefit analysis, if any, that has been carried out by his Department or bodies under the aegis of his Department to assess the economic benefits in terms of lower long-term fuel costs that could be achieved by re-weighting the procurement process for the purchase of new buses to give greater weight to lower-emission, more fuel-efficient public service buses and the way such cost savings measure against the higher initial capital costs associated with such purchases; if he will provide a reference to any such published economic modelling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22469/13]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Following the establishment of the National Transport Authority (NTA) in December 2009, the implementation and development of infrastructure projects in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), such as the replacement of PSO buses by Dublin Bus, comes under the remit of the NTA.

In addition in view of the NTA's role as contracting party for PSO contracts, it has been agreed that the NTA would coordinate and oversee the grant funding arrangements relating to Bus Éireann's capital investment requirements. Insofar as areas outside the GDA are concerned, the Authority are managing capital funding, including the funding of replacement buses, on an administrative basis on behalf of my Department.

All public procurement carried out by agencies under the aegis of my Department is governed by the key principles of best value for money as well as compliance with EU Directives (including EU emissions standards applicable to new buses), Irish Regulations and Government Guidelines.

In the light of the NTA's role in this matter I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.