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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 29 Nov 2000

Vol. 527 No. 1

Written Answers. - Public Transport.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

51 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the extent to which she has examined the feasibility of ensuring that her national transport plans can provide services or access to services which will have the effect of providing the public with the basic necessities in respect of rail, road and air services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27817/00]

On the public transport front, the Public Transport Development Strategy 2000-2006 comprises two main components.

The Greater Dublin Area – £1.585 billion

The transformation of the public transport system in the greater Dublin area is being brought about through the introduction of a light rail system, substantial investment in suburban rail, a major enhancement of the bus network and much improved integration of services;

Regional Public Transport Programme – £650 million

A regional public transport programme to improve the quality of public transport services, particularly in large urban areas. Of this £650 million, £500 million will be used to implement the rail safety programme, as well as a major mainline rail renewal programme which will also increase the passenger capacity of the network and enhance the quality of service to the public.

In relation to the aviation sector, the aviation market in Europe is now fully liberalised and it is a matter for airlines to decide which services they wish to offer and which routes they wish to operate. In addition, member states may impose a public service obligation on a route, which is not considered commercially viable by the airlines, if it is considered vital for the economic development of a region.

Currently four PSO routes are in operation, linking the airports in Donegal, Sligo, Galway and Kerry with Dublin. I intend establishing two new PSO routes linking Derry and Knock with Dublin and these routes will come into operation in January 2001.

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