Ms Anne Graham:

Senator Mark Daly asked about the free travel scheme. We do not believe it will be impacted by Brexit; the arrangements can continue. Regarding what the committee can recommend on bus services in particular, we would like to see whatever replacement agreement is put in place reflect EU Regulation 1073. That regulation works well and we would like to see the replacement agreement reflecting those requirements.

For commercial bus services, such as the Dublin to Donegal bus service, it will be up to the operator to put in whatever contingency plans are required based on whatever delays might occur on those services. If there are delays to their journey times, they would have to apply for amendments to their licences with the authority. Obviously, if there are changes to journey times for contracted services that may cross the Border, we may have to put in additional services that are more frequent and cover the services during the day. I believe the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport is engaged in discussions about a replacement for EU Regulation 1073 for cross-Border bus services.

There was a question about taxis. Legislation from both sides of the Border would be required to allow for cross-Border taxi services.

From a regulatory point of view, we just have to manage whatever the agreed scenario is, including a hard border. Iarnród Éireann would be having more discussions directly with Translink on the hourly service than we would.

I think that covers the main issues that were raised for the authority.