Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I fully understand the personal impact this dispute has had on Bus Éireann workers. As I have said, this is about having a bus company. Government policy is supportive of the PSO model. That is why there has been an increase in the amount of money provided. Some €230 million has been provided to Bus Éireann across the PSO through free travel, capital programmes and school transport programmes. As Senator Gavan knows quite well, that figure was increased again in the most recent budget. Mar fhocal scoir on this issue today in this House, I appeal to all sides. I think there is a meeting of minds in this House. We want to see the dispute resolved. It will not be resolved by being on the national airwaves, on local radio or in the print media - it will be resolved by re-engaging. That requires the management and the unions to sit down and engage.