Dublin bus fare policy
The Minister said fare increases require Government approval, the latest increase was below CIE’s request, and discounted prepaid tickets help keep public transport affordable.
asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has enunciated any policy to CIE regarding the level of bus fares on the Dublin city services; if he has any proposals to reduce bus fares in the Dublin area; if he is considering any application for private bus services in the Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
12.
Comment on this
(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he has had any policy discussions with the board of CIE regarding the level of bus fares on Dublin city routes; if he has any plans for a reduction in the present fare levels; if he has made any decision regarding the use of private bus operators on any of these routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Comment on this
I propose to take Question Nos. 10 and 12 together.
Increases in bus fare levels by Bus Átha Cliath are subject to approval by the Government and in that context discussions are held with the company as necessary.
The last bus fares increase was implemented by the company on 24 January 1988. The increases granted were lower than those sought. Bus Átha Cliath provide a large range of prepaid commuter tickets and special fares at discounts which reduce the costs for passengers. It is policy to promote the wider and increased use of public transport and to keep fares at the lowest possible levels, taking account of the costs of providing the services and the financial resources of Coras Iompair Éireann.
There are no proposals under consideration in my Department for reductions in bus fares. No doubt, the company would make such a proposal if the likely consequences for their finances were favourable.
The Road Transport Act, 1932, regulates the licensing of bus services generally, including those of the Dublin area. In the course of the recently completed review of that Act, I have taken account of the question of a greater role for the private bus industry in the provision of bus services. I am now finalising my proposals for consideration by the Government and I plan to introduce amending legislation later this year.
Pending the enactment of the new legislation, I shall continue to consider applications for road passenger licences on their merits in accordance with the Act.