Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 November 2008
291 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the number and names of organisations or agencies under his auspices which have been amalgamated or eliminated due to budgetary measures; the estimated savings in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42227/08]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is at present preparing proposals for the implementation of the decision announced in Budget 2009 in relation to the rationalisation of State agencies. For my Department, this involves the establishment of the Dublin Transport Authority and the amalgamation of air, marine, and rail accident investigation functions. At this stage, no agencies or functions have been amalgamated or eliminated.
It is proposed that the Dublin Transport Authority will incorporate the Dublin Transportation Office, the Commission for Taxi Regulation and the Public Transport Licensing function of my Department. I am satisfied that substantial benefits will accrue as a result of the improved procurement, regulation, management and co-ordination of transport services. Those benefits will accrue to the travelling public, employers, taxpayers and society at large and will make an important contribution to sustaining competitiveness and addressing the increasing challenges of climate change. I believe also that the amalgamation of the accident investigation functions will enable efficiencies to be achieved. These will come from the integration of support functions.
