Transport | Bus and rail reroutes and changes

To ask the Minister for Transport the extent to which concerns regarding the changing of bus routes have been allayed; if there remains a specific number of locations where potential for existing passengers have issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To ask the Minister for Transport the extent to which adequate provision is being made to ensure that revised bus routes are adequately tailored to meet the requirements of passengers; if adequate warning has been given and agreement reached in terms of changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY

The Authority is implementing major enhancements to bus services across the country, including the “Bus Connects” programme in cities and “Connecting Ireland” in rural areas.
All changes are carefully designed to meet the requirements of passengers:
– Development of the network enhancement programmes includes in-depth engagement with local authorities and transport operators.
– All significant change proposals are the subject of consultation before plans are finalised. For example, in Dublin, the Authority carried out three rounds of public consultation with almost 72,000 submissions received.

Prior to implementation the Authority carries out extensive information campaigns. In Dublin this has included delivery of information booklets to affected households and businesses, advertising via broadcast media, social media and posters, and deployment of “Street Ambassadors” at bus stops before and after the date new services commence.
After implementation the Authority monitors the changes to ensure that they are operating as planned. After the services have settled-in there will be adjustments as necessary to, for example, the timing of school and work journeys or to capacity. Typically it can take around a year for new patterns of usage to become established and the Authority will carry out a review of the way services are being used. At all stages input from passengers, whether direct or via representations is
welcomed and carefully considered.
This is a summary of the general approach. The Authority would be very happy to discuss any specific matters concerning public transport service changes.