To ask the Minister for Transport the plans he has to introduce public service contracts into the rail service; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
- Paul Kehoe. (Nominated by: Denis Naughten).
For ORAL answer on Thursday, 27th May, 2004.
Ref No:   15804/04     Lottery:   54     Proof:   52

Answered by the Minister For Transport
(Séamus Brennan)

REPLY
I set out my proposals for public transport reform in a statement to the Public Transport Partnership Forum in November 2002.  As outlined in that statement it is my intention to establish an independent authority to procure public transport services.  I also proposed that all DART and suburban rail services in the Greater Dublin Area would be provided subject to a multi-annual public service contract negotiated by the independent authority with Iarnrod Eireann.
In reply to recent Questions, I have stated that it is now my intention that the independent authority will have a national remit and in this context it is my intention that all rail services provided by Iarnrod Eireann will be subject to a public service contract with the new authority.
It is my intention to proceed with legislation to give effect to these and other public transport reforms during 2004.