Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I proposed the motion in the Dáil a couple of weeks ago and got cross-party support for it. I agree with the sentiments on how the NTA issues licences, and on increased subventions and increased funding from the Department of Social Protection. I welcome the fact that the unions are going to the WRC this evening and the last thing they or their members want to is be out on strike and to discommode the tens of thousands of people who rely on Bus Éireann to commute to work on a daily basis. It is important that a State company such as Bus Éireann provides an essential, public, integrated transport service but it is in a serious financial situation. I do not blame union members for this for one minute. However, the unions and workers have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to engage on the efficiencies that have to be achieved. One speaker said the unions were in the dark because they had not been party to all the reports that have been issued and I will be calling on the Minister, Deputy Ross, to make available all reports to unions so that they can be fully informed.

A sectoral employment agreement was called for. What is the current basic pay for a bus driver and what maximum amount does that rise to over the years?