The official version of this document can be found via the PDF button.
The below content has been automatically generated from the original PDF and some formatting may have been lost, therefore it should not be relied upon to extract citations or propose amendments.
2.9 Deputy K.C. Lewis of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the possible return of the Hoppa Bus service:
Will the Minister undertake to identify sufficient funding to enable Transport and Technical Services to restart the Hoppa Bus service when several car parking areas in St. Helier are lost?
Senator T.A. Le Sueur (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):
It is not within my remit to identify funding for this or any other service. There is a well established annual resource allocation process culminating in a States' business plan debate each September. We are just embarking upon such a process for the 2009 Business Plan and should the Transport and Technical Services Minister consider it a priority to restart the Hoppa Bus service, it is for that department to identify the matter as a funding pressure for the future. This would then be considered by the Council of Ministers, who may or may not put it forward for approval by the States in the Business Plan debate. Should they not do so, any States Member may, of course, bring an amendment as part of that debate.
2.9.1 Deputy K.C. Lewis :
In a recent question to the Minister for Transport and Technical Services, I believe he stated that he was prevented from starting a Hoppa Bus service again due to lack of funding. I hope I am quoting the Minister correctly. With so many of St. Helier car parks due for closure, a Hoppa Bus service would be a great asset to the people of Jersey and to shopkeepers alike. Does the Minister believe that this should be brought forward in the Business Plan for next year? Does the Minister not agree?
Senator T.A. Le Sueur :
I am not sure what the Minister of Transport and Technical Services said, but clearly there is no funding available in 2008 for a Hoppa Bus service. If it is felt that this service is now of a high priority, then it is up to the Minister and up to this House to decide in next September's Business Plan whether to vote those funds. When those funds are voted, the Minister can then implement the service.