Robert Troy
Question:266. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann routes that are profitable. [21889/16]
View answerThursday, 14 July 2016
Questions (266)
Written answers
Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann receive Exchequer funding in respect of public service obligation (PSO) services. PSO services are public transport services provided in the general interest that another commercial operator would not assume or would not assume to the same extent or under the same conditions without reward.
Exchequer funding is made available to the NTA to allocate to the transport operators as it determines and in line with the public service contract it has in place with each operator. These contracts specify the services to be provided by the operators. In the context of the Deputy's question, it is important to note that the contracts are in regard to the provision of a network of PSO bus services. This network requirement is a common feature of contracts of this nature across the EU.
In that context the specific route level analysis sought by the Deputy is not readily available. I have however directed your question to the NTA for direct reply in the context of any network level analysis that might be available. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Of course, in addition to their PSO work, both bus companies also operate commercial services which are not funded by the Exchequer and which are subject to normal competitive pressure from other operators. In the case of Dublin Bus these services primarily relate to airport express and tourist related services, while Bus Éireann operates an extensive inter-urban Expressway service which is completely commercial and receives no Exchequer funding. The performance of these routes is a commercial matter for the companies concerned.