Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 19 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 4

Written Answers. - Public Transport.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

11 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the total Exchequer subvention to CIE for the year 2000; the amount allocated to Bus Átha Cliath; if such subvention is made on the basis that a satisfactory and adequate service is provided; if her attention has been drawn to the need for huge improvements in the late night integration of the public transport services with the transport provider; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22508/00]

Minister for Public Enterprise (Mrs. O'Rourke): The subvention to CIE in 2000 amounts to £115.2 million. The allocation of this subvention between the separate companies is a matter for CIE.

I understand that the CIE board has allocated £13.4 million to Bus Átha Cliath in 2000. The allocation is not at present related specifically to particular levels of services. I recently published a Government consultation paper entitled A New Institutional and Regulatory Framework for Public Transport which includes a wide range of reform proposals. Among them is a proposal to establish a transitional regulatory authority whose functions would include the allocation of public transport subvention through public service contracts.

I share the Deputy's concern for improved integration of public transport services. There is a particular need to improve late night services and the CIE companies are developing proposals for enhanced service in the run up to Christmas.