Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Courtney for his presentation. His curriculum vitae is very good. I would like to discuss a number of issues with him. The proposed off-loading of 10% of Dublin Bus routes in 2016 is, in my view, a move towards privatisation. Dublin Bus should remain publicly owned and operated. I am interested in hearing Mr. Courtney's view on that issue. I understand the NTA is currently putting pressure on in this regard. Can that proposal be rowed back on or is it, as appears to be the case, written in stone?

Perhaps Mr. Courtney would offer his opinion on the plans regarding bus rapid transit and say whether he will have input in that regard and what it entails. This plan will hugely affect Dublin Bus and its routes, particularly the main routes. On bus lanes, we hear constantly from people about the need for fewer restrictions on the use of bus lanes and that they should be opened up more to use by other traffic. In some areas, there is awful congestion during times when bus lanes are empty. I would welcome Mr. Courtney's view on this.

Dublin Bus recently recruited a large number of people, which is a positive development. On the other hand, it is reducing its Dublin routes by 10%, which will mean a loss of passengers. I welcome the fact that Dublin Bus is recruiting and that its passenger numbers have stabilised. Mr. Courtney might inform the committee of the proposed remuneration, if any, that he will receive for this post. I acknowledge his reference to other companies with which he has been associated. Perhaps he would elaborate on his involvement as chairman or member in other companies.