Seán Haughey
Ceist:235 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Transport if he will allow motorcyclists to use quality bus corridors and bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14870/02]
Written Answers. - Quality Bus Corridors.
The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and pro mote bus based public transport. Existing regulations generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire services, an exemption to that limitation is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.
The Minister for the Environment and Local Government previously held responsibility in this area and following representations from hackney, limousine and motorcycle interests on the issue of bus lane access, a review of the regulations was undertaken last year by his Department in consultation with An Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and Dublin Corporation.
An overriding concern is the carrying capacity of bus lanes and the potential that their primary role to provide bus priority could be undermined if other vehicles are allowed access. Having regard to these circumstances, and having considered the various views expressed on this issue, it was decided on completion of the review that there should be no change in the existing bus lane access provisions.
I have no proposals at present to amend the existing provisions.