Eamonn Maloney (Dublin South West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for selecting this issue. I will be brief as I am sharing time with Deputy Dooley.

The Minister will be familiar with the outcome of yesterday's discussions between the transport unions, the Department, the National Transport Authority, CIE, Dublin Bus and so forth regarding the forthcoming proposal on the privatisation of 10% of routes. The Minister's predecessor was also involved in this issue. I hope the Minister will agree that it is regrettable that yesterday's discussions broke down because, one way or another, this issue must be resolved. The bus workers have legitimate concerns about what might happen where 10% of routes are privatised, notwithstanding the fact that Dublin Bus, in the case of Dublin, can apply and will no doubt win some of those routes. The point is that the worker is faced with the threat of a change of employer and issues about their pensions, pension rights and so forth.

There are other issues as well. We should be concerned and avoid getting into the situation where these talks are now going. SIPTU and the National Bus and Railworkers Union are in discussions about a ballot on strike action. This is an opportunity for the Minister. I know his views on public transport. With the Minister's intervention we should get the talks started again.

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