Vol. 561 No. 4
395 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the measures as outlined in the review of Estimates report which have been implemented by his Department to date; the measures he proposes to implement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4481/03]
As the Deputy is aware, the Independent Estimates Review Committee made a number of comments in respect of my Department in its report to the Minister for Finance. Following this report, my Department has implemented various measures which address the committee's proposals.
Regional AirportsAn expenditure review of the public service obligations, PSO, air service programme will be carried out by my Department to evaluate the effectiveness of current PSO arrangements and to examine the scope for alternative policy approaches to achieving the objectives on a more efficient and effective basis.
Tenders for the carrying out of this assignment are currently being evaluated and it is hoped to award the relevant contract by the end of the month. This review is expected to be completed during the month of April.
Taxi Hardship PaymentsThe Government is committed to the implementation of the recommendations of the taxi hardship panel in accordance with An Agreed Programme for Government. On 17 December 2002 the Government approved the publication of the report of the taxi hardship panel and the implementation on a phased basis of the recommendations of the panel by the National Taxi Regulator. On 14 February 2003, I announced the appointment of Mr. Jimmy Farrelly as interim chairman of the Commission for Taxi Regulation pending the introduction later this year of a Commission for Taxi Regulation on a full statutory basis. I have asked Mr. Farrelly to examine how best the findings of the taxi hardship panel can be implemented.
CIEI approved an increase of an average of 9% in CIE fares with effect from 2 December 2002. I have also made provision for the Railway Safety Commission from within the overall 2003 allocations thus continuing to maintain the Government's commitment to rail safety.
The measures outlined in the Review of Estimates Report will, of course, require ongoing consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Finance.
