Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I forgot to welcome the Minister of State earlier. The amendment proposes to include the wording, "shall have regard to the desirability of ensuring that operators of public bus services are not treated less favourably than operators of private bus services". I am happy to support this on condition that it would also ensure a provision that private bus operators would not be discriminated against in favour of public bus operators. I am a huge believer in competition which I believe is worthwhile and worthy of support. I am delighted to see Senator O'Malley present because I know she has the same view. Senator Norris and I agree on many things but I do not agree with him on Mr. Lemass who was a great supporter of public utilities until they were able to hold their own. He then believed in putting them in private hands.

Recently, I came through the airport and was impressed by the bus services which operate from there compared to five or six years ago when there was only one bus service to Busáras. Now, there is a wealth of services to various destinations. This has improved the service to the public no end. We are also familiar with competition between airlines. I am sure all of us remember that it used to cost £290 to get to London because only two state companies operated on the route. Since competition was introduced the difference has been huge.

I fully believe in ensuring we do not discriminate against private bus services but I also support the public bus services and it must be ensured they can provide services also. We should not discriminate. I support what Senator Ryan stated on condition that we would add another amendment on private bus operators not being discriminated against in favour of public bus operators. However, it would be far better to have no amendment rather than two which contradict each other.