Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I am proud of what the CIE companies do. The Labour Party view on this is entirely different to mine. We all agree, however, that there is an onus on the companies to ensure value for money for taxpayers and to produce efficiencies in a modern competitive environment. We must acknowledge that they have been working to achieve that.

My view on the application from CIE is that the increases sought are excessive. I am seeking further information to back up the request for such significant increases, an average of some 9.5% across the companies. If we maintain public transport in Dublin city at a good level, more people will be encouraged to use it.

The most successful light rail system in Europe is Luas. There is no comparison in any other country. Light rail projects in other countries have only achieved high-peak capacity whereas Luas has defied expectations in that it also has off-peak capacity. This year it is running a surplus with no subvention required. That is unique in Europe. Rather than criticising our public sector companies that deliver public transport, we should acknowledge the successes they have brought about.

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