Vol. 554 No. 5
1244 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if he will introduce regulations that will allow bus lanes to be used at the discretion of each local authority by scooters and hackney cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16599/02]
1245 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce regulations to allow hackneys use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16633/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1244 and 1245 together.
The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. Existing regulations generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, 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 the Garda Síochána, the Dublin Transportation Office and Dublin City Council.
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 at the time of completion of the review that there should be no change in the existing bus lane access provisions.
