Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
186. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport to prioritise the delivery of the Bus Connects local routes services in Portrane and Donabate given the census figures from 2022 on bus travel are concerning (details supplied) in regard to our climate targets of reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 by improving public transport travel and reducing car journeys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4849/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. In both the policy and funding areas there have been significant developments since this Government came into office, with the publication of a Sustainable Mobility Policy and its five-year action plan providing strong policy support to the continued expansion and enhancement of bus services. I am also delighted to say that this strong policy support has been backed up by increased levels of Exchequer funding, which is supporting the roll-out of initiatives such as BusConnects Dublin.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects Dublin. To date the NTA has submitted planning applications to An Bord Pleanala (ABP) in respect of all 12 of the Core Bus Corridor schemes. Two of these schemes have recently been approved by ABP, as required for Approval Gate 2 of the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, and your specific query relating to proposed services to Donabate and Portrane, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
