Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister is aware that public transport is the main option available to us to reduce congestion in cities, improve links in economies in regional areas, meet our carbon targets and continue to ensure rural and social inclusion through our public transport network. In fact, it is the main solution to the myriad transport issues we face. I am sure the Minister understands that public transport is not always profit-making. It is a public service that is provided to serve the people and the State from both economic and social perspectives. It is a hugely important public service.

In recent days, the Minister told his Cabinet colleagues that, due to losses of more than €5 million last year and up to €6 million this year, between six and eight routes may have to be cut. Bus Éireann has also mentioned the separation of the Expressway service - separation being another word for privatisation. It is also proposing a reduction in staff and the introduction of pay cuts and changes in pay conditions for workers, yet the programme for Government commits to a full review of public transport policy and investing in services, including an updated bus fleet.

This issue has been flagged by the company and the unions for quite some time. Will the Minister facilitate engagement by all the stakeholders, including his Department, the NTA, Bus Éireann and the unions, in order to find a resolution to this issue? It is extremely serious. This is our public transport network.

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