Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 530: To ask the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the proposal by Bus Éireann to abolish, or reduce frequency of, approximately 50 of its routes as part of its cost recovery programme; if these routes are subvented by the State; if such funding will be returned to the Exchequer; the amount of such funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30265/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I have been briefed on Bus Eireann's plan. The Company is currently pursuing a cost recovery plan to deal with the company's growing operating deficit arising from cost pressures and changes in passenger demand. This is after account is taken of a subvention grant of €45m in 2009 towards loss making services. The plan is the subject of discussion between Bus Éireann and its unions. I understand that some of the routes affected are PSO routes which are loss making.