Mr. Stephen Kent:

In fairness, the NTA has set out very clearly what its plans are on a phased basis for the coming years, subject to funding. We know there are vehicles being supplied and that drivers will be required but also mechanics. Senator Dooley can see all of these things. We are clear about what the NTA is doing. We have to do it, but whether it is the Ennis town service or other service it has to be come on a phased basis and we have to grow into it. Obviously other businesses that have been tendered by the NTA will tender for those. There is a balance for us in terms of taking drivers on when we know we are going to be funded, and not taking on too many drivers where we might end up not being funded for them. It is very clear that there is a lot of opportunity. In the next couple of years, Bus Éireann will need 800 to 1,000 drivers and we would like to provide more school transport services directly if we can as well.