Public Transport.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 July 2009

Thursday, 9 July 2009

Ceisteanna (28, 29)

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

21 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Transport if he will undertake a review of public bus services for commuters in view of the recent significant changes to Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus routes and services through programmes of cutbacks; if he is monitoring the effect of withdrawn or reduced public bus services on workers and commuters particularly in lower income areas and for vulnerable citizens including senior citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28380/09]

George Lee

Ceist:

22 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether CIE is capable in providing adequate bus services at a reasonable cost to the Exchequer in view of the recent cutbacks in services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28570/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

I propose to take Question Nos. 21 and 22 together.

In January last I published a cost and efficiency review of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann services. The review concluded that, while both companies are generally as efficient as comparable organisations, there is considerable scope for Dublin Bus to improve its services to customers through improved network design and increased efficiencies. The recommendations of the review are being implemented by both companies in the context of their cost recovery plans to ensure the financial viability of the companies while maintaining services at the highest possible level.

Decisions in relation to services and the deployment of buses and drivers are matters for the companies having regard, inter alia, to the changing patterns and levels of demand and the revenue available from fares and Exchequer compensation for PSO services.