June 2008 – Statement by Aine Brady on Circleline's decision to cease Celbridge-Dublin bus service

'I am very disappointed by Circleline decision to cease services on the Celbridge to Dublin Route. Circleline's entry to the Bus market  a few years ago was universally welcomed by everyone in Celbridge.'

'As soon as I became aware of their decision on Friday, I made contact with the Minister to reflect the concerns of the many users of the service.'

'He has assured me that a reform of the Bus Licensing Regime is underway and when completed will enable companies such as Circleline to operate successfully.'

'The Dublin Transport Authority Bill, which was at Committee Stage on Wednesday of last week, is almost through the Oireachtas. This is the first major overhaul of the Bus licensing regime in decades. Once this Bill is enacted, the next stage is to replace the 1932 bus licensing Act. Once both of these pieces of new legislation are in place a new bus-licensing regime will operate. This new regime will out law the kind of anti competitive practices such as those alleged to have taken place on some of the Circleline routes.'

'I am a strong supporter of Public Transport. Since getting elected I have continuously been working to highlight the need for a better Infrastructure for our Bus Service - including Bus Corridors. We need to continue to market the Bus as a smart choice for commuters. The decision by Circleline to cease the service to Celbridge is very regrettable, we must continue to work to get solutions to avoid such issues arising again. I have been given an assurance by the Minister that this is a top priority for the Department of Transport. '

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