The use of bus lanes is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. The regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing an on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.
Many representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes in relation to a wide range of other road users including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001 and took account of the physical characteristics of the vehicles seeking access, including motorcycles.
As part of that review the views of the director of traffic in Dublin City Council, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Garda Síochána were sought. All of those bodies suggested that there should be no change to the current position. That remains the position.