Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
337. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport whether he has considered allowing the use of bus lanes for all SPSVs; the rationale for any exclusion of certain SPSVs (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45799/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has no plans at present to allow hackneys or chauffeur-driven limousines to use bus lanes. Bus lanes were created to provide on-street priority for bus-based public transport. The goal is to make bus transport faster and more reliable, thereby encouraging more people to switch from private cars to public transport. This will achieve the twin goals of reducing congestion and reducing pollution.
In addition to buses, bus lanes may also be used by bicycles, e-scooters and L1e-A e-mopeds who, as vulnerable road users, are safer in bus lanes than in general traffic. The lanes may also of course be used by emergency services.
After the lanes were introduced, it was decided to allow taxis to use them, as they are considered a form of public transport because they are available for on-street hire, like buses and unlike private hire hackneys or limousines.
