A proposed framework for the reform of public transport, incorporating a restructuring of CIE and increased participation by the private sector, was published yesterday by the Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke.
The proposals in the Government consultation paper include the establishment of Bus Atha Cliath and Bus Eireann as separate independent companies competing in each other's area of business; consideration of the transfer to private ownership of Dublin Bus; the division of Iarnrod Eireann into two companies; and the possible dissolution of the CIE holding company.
The proposed institutional and regulatory changes in public transport will provide for consultation with interested parties, particularly the social partners through the Public Transport Partnership Forum, the paper points out.
Although availability of finance was now less of a constraint than in the past, resources were not unlimited. The Government would be looking to public-private partnerships as a way of providing some of the funding.
"The challenge is to create an attractive, integrated public transport system which addresses the economic and social needs of all of our citizens," said Ms O'Rourke.
The Government proposes Bus Atha Cliath and Bus Eireann be established as independent companies and geographical restrictions would be removed, resulting in both companies being able to compete to provide bus services throughout the State alongside any other licensed or franchised operators.
The State would divest itself of ownership of at least one of the bus companies, likely to be Bus Atha Cliath.
The division of Iarnrod Eireann proposes two independent companies, one responsible for the railway infrastructure and the other for the operation of rail services. The infrastructure company would remain in State ownership.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) would be used to procure the design, construction, maintenance, operation and financing of major new public transport infrastructures, including the Dublin light-rail network and any new suburban rail-lines.
An independent public transport regulatory function and an independent railway safety authority would be established.
The paper calls for submissions on the proposals from individuals and organisations by October 13th next.