I outlined in previous newsletters my ongoing efforts to have the bus services to the general area improved. These efforts have included a face to face meeting with the Chief Executive of Dublin Bus in recent months, with whom I raised the serious concerns of local residents regarding the poor bus service to the area. I am pleased to inform you that Dublin Bus propose to introduce a number of improvements to the local bus service in the area of Ballycullen, Knocklyon, Scholarstown and Whitechurch in the coming weeks. The plan is for a phased introduction of changes. The first service initiative will introduce peak-hour departures from Ballycullen operating the following route:- Three departures in the morning to the city on each route between 6:30 a.m and 8:00 a.m. are proposed and a similar number of return journeys from 4 p.m. from the city centre in the evening. These changes will be introduced by Monday 21st May 2007.

Proposed Route 74

Stocking Avenue/Ballycullen - Ballycullen Road - Firhouse Road - Templeogue - Rathmines - St Stephens Green - Eden Quay (Terminus)

Proposed Route 74a

Stocking Avenue/Ballycullen - Ballyboden Road - Rathfarnham Road - Rathmines - St Stephens Green - Eden Quay (Terminus)

In June 2007, Dublin Bus will introduce further significant changes that will improve reliability and service frequency in the area. These include a significant enhancement to the Route 15 timetable with a proposed Route 15 service to Knocklyon approximately every 10 minutes for the duration of the morning peak (compared to the current 15/20 minute service). In addition, it is proposed to extend the current Route 15B to Whitechurch giving additional departures and improved reliability. Route 15C will be amalgamated with the full 7 day Route 74A service from Stocking Lane as described above. These changes will give two new routes in the area as well as much needed additional capacity. In addition, revised timetables will be designed to improve reliability.