Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Deputy will recall that during her time as a Minister of State, a value for money report was published on this matter. It was decided that we would continue on in the manner envisaged, in other words, that the relationship with Bus Éireann would continue. The Deputy will also be aware of a recent High Court case which focused on the nature of the arrangements between the Department and Bus Éireann. The essential thrust of that legal action was to seek an order from the High Court setting aside the existing arrangements for the provision of national school transport services. That was before the commercial High Court for a six day period. The court found comprehensively in favour of the Department and costs were awarded to the Department. The matter is now the subject of a Supreme Court appeal. To answer the Deputy's question, a value for money report was carried out on this matter and I do not envisage that the policy will be revisited at this point.

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