Martin Ferris (Kerry North-West Limerick, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his reply but it misses our point. Money has been supplied to Kerry Flyer, such as €180,861 in 2014, for staff, including a driver. I do not know if the driver was driving the bus. It is noted as "operational funding" and it is clear that this can be used for motor tax, insurance, diesel and maintenance and repairs of the vehicle. In 2015, some €174,000 was allocated, and this will be repeated in 2016. That is the current position.

Many of the private contractors borrowed money to upgrade vehicles, in some cases making them wheelchair accessible, etc. They invested much money but these people are out of work because State funding is being used by an organisation. It is unfair competition at the very least. Having charitable status means the company is not obliged to pay tax but private companies must do so. They cannot compete as a result.

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