Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 February 2014
750. Deputy Paudie Coffey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the budget for bus shelters and accessibility improvements has not yet been allocated by the National Transport Authority to Bus Éireann; if he will provide a date for when this capital funding will be dispensed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4941/14]
View answerAs 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 provision of bus shelters, comes under the remit of the NTA. In addition the functions of the NTA in relation to public transport infrastructure have been extended to include securing or providing bus stops, bus shelters, bus stations, stands and bus fleets in the State with effect from 1 January 2014.
I understand that the 2014 budget allocations for Bus Eireann Bus Stops and Accessibility Projects is still under consideration by the NTA, and is scheduled to be finalised during early February. Noting the NTA's responsibility regarding the issues raised, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
