Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot give any such guarantee. I am not the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and I am not the chief executive of Bus Éireann. I note, however, that a commitment has been given that no community will be left without a public service. It must be remembered that in my own area we have many private sector providers doing a great job on rural transport. I have many companies in north Mayo where we would not have a service if we were depending on Bus Éireann or anybody else. That service is being provided by the private sector and we are delighted to have it. The providers work with the Department of Social Protection and people can use their free travel passes. I hope these services will continue. As I say, the Government has given a commitment that no community will be left without a service. However, I cannot speak for Bus Éireann. I do not have the authority. I am not the Minister and I am not the chief executive of Bus Éireann.

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