Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the CIE group. We are being painted a grim picture of the written report. Let us be fair - if CIE was a medical patient, it would be confined to intensive care. What business studies of CIE's workings and future have been undertaken?

We need an independent international study group to perform a microscopic analysis in order to provide guidance and outline a way forward for the companies. Has such an initiative been undertaken? Perhaps a group capable of such analysis is in this country. One can easily see how well private operators run their businesses. We all know these are tough economic times, but the private operators have a greater commercial and businesslike outlook. They are thriving and many of them are expanding. The delegation might learn from their experience. Radical measures are needed to stop the rot and return the companies to profit, but it cannot be done overnight. Critical mass is one of the success factors. At present there is a lack of people commuting and travelling and thus relying on the companies.

As far as I am aware, if a tourist, whether a backpacker or otherwise, wants to travel to Cork this evening, he or she must buy a return ticket for €70 even if a single ticket is all that is required. I question the viability of such railway charges. I compliment Iarnród Éireann on its attractive family fares but the traveller who wishes to make a single journey must buy a return ticket. I wonder what perception that leaves the tourist with.

I support the remarks made by Deputy Ellis. The companies should carry out a complete re-examination of their properties and buildings, particularly in strategic locations in towns and villages. There is a slump in the property market but perhaps the companies could identify where profits or revenue can be generated through the disposal of assets lying idle or whatever. They are faced with a huge task to get finances back on track, if they will pardon the pun.