Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 November 2022
60. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Transport the issues causing a recent report (details supplied) of a deterioration in bus services in Dublin city; the remedies being applied by his Department and the various public and private bodies involved in bus transport in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55875/22]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
I am aware that all bus operators are experiencing difficulties in recruiting sufficient drivers at present and that this is impacting both the operation of the existing bus routes and the introduction of new routes.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is working with operators to try and mitigate the impacts through:
- Driver recruitment campaigns;
- engagement with the RSA regarding the testing and licence process for new bus drivers; and
- by working with the operator to minimise service cancellations, ensure first- and last- service buses operate and on low-frequency routes to avoid, where possible, the cancellation of consecutive low frequency services.
Notwithstanding the above, as the matter raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the company, I have referred the question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
