Cullen plans regulatory proposals for Dublin buses

Minister for Transport Martin Cullen is likely to put proposals for the regulation of the Dublin bus market before the Cabinet next week.

Minister Cullen is expected to give power to the new Dublin Transportation Authority to regulate the market.

However, the two government parties appear to be split on how much power should be given to the authority.

The PDs want the regulator to demand performance standards from bus companies, which would, over time, allow private operators into the market.

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern says the Minister has been working hard on these proposals.

“He has been engaged in discussions with the trade unions for a long period,” he said.

“To the best of my knowledge, he completed his proposals just before the holiday break and he's bringing those to government.

"The only thing we all want to see is the best for the public and … a modern regulatory system. His proposals will embrace that."