asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to complete the programme of bus lanes for Dublin; and if he will ensure that the regulations governing them are observed.

I intend to continue with the implementation of bus lanes in the Dublin area. The routes which will receive priority examination with a view to developing bus lanes next year will be those linking the city centre with Bally-fermot, Drimnagh, Clonskeagh, Stillorgan and Whitehall. Bus lanes will also be implemented at city centre locations. In general, observance of bus lanes by non-bus traffic has been quite good. Garda efforts to reduce infringements to the minimum will continue.

I know the Garda have many duties to carry out but in some cases in Dublin the regulations governing the bus lanes are being abused. What steps can the Minister take to ensure that there is a motor cycle traffic squad to police the bus lanes? If the regulations are not enforced the bus lanes will meet the same end as the one in Fairview met in 1971.

I agree about the importance of Dublin motorists observing the bus lanes. The traffic department of the Garda have 250 prosecutions pending for infringement of these regulations. There may be more prosecutions at local Garda stations. The Garda are alert to the need to ensure that the bus lanes are kept clear.