Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 November 2020
40. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport if consideration has been given to encouraging more frequent public transport timetables, given the reduction to 25% capacity, in order that students and essential workers can complete their journeys without undue delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38974/20]
View answerContinued operation of the public transport sector is important, and it has been designated among the essential services that have carried on during the Covid crisis. I would like to thank both public and commercial operators and their staff for their continued dedication to providing this vital service in such challenging times.
The Government's "Living with Covid" Plan sets out capacity guidance for public transport at each of the 5 risk levels identified in the Plan. Due to the rising incidences of Covid-19 in the community, An Taoiseach announced that for a period of six weeks from midnight on Wednesday 21st October, the whole country would move to Level 5 of the Plan. At current levels of risk, public transport operators are restricted to using only 25% of the passenger-carrying capacity on their vehicles. Importantly, the Plan's guidance on working from home where possible, and on the closure of social, leisure and other facilities has reduced the demand for public transport well below normal levels. The advice is aimed at ensuring public transport is safeguarded for those who need it most, including essential workers and students. Both my Department and the NTA are closely monitoring public transport demand and will continue to be guided by public health advice.
Since the move to Level 5, the NTA and bus operators in Dublin (Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland), have re-allocated a number of vehicles and drivers across the network to enhance the capacity in areas where they were experiencing capacity issues.
Approximately 43 buses have been redeployed by Dublin Bus since October 22nd to help mitigate the impact of the capacity restrictions and reduce the number of passengers being left at stops. Where possible, these vehicles are being deployed during peak demand times, particularly for school travel. These measures have also assisted in reducing passengers' wait times at stops. Currently, all available vehicles are in use, so whilst the re-allocation has eased the situation, it remains the case that there may still be instances of people having to wait for another bus.
The NTA continues to monitor the effects of the reduction in capacity very closely in conjunction with public transport operators.
