Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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273. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the attempts he and his departmental officials have made to encourage the parties involved in the Dublin Bus dispute to try to find a resolution to the dispute; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27952/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​I have clearly and consistently made known my view in this dispute that these issues will only be resolved by both employer and employees engaging in open and constructive dialogue and agreeing upon a reasonable solution. I have been equally clear that as Minister I have no role or function in the discussions required to end this pay dispute between the employer and its employees.

As with all commercial State companies under my remit, I exercise the role of shareholder on behalf of the State and my Department maintains communication with all such companies to ensure I am fully briefed on all relevant issues.  

I obviously welcome the talks that commenced in the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) on Monday 26th September, and I also welcomed the helpful suspension of the industrial action which had been  planned for Tuesday and Wednesday, so as to allow for further discussions to take place.

My hope now is that both sides can agree upon a resolution that ensures not just a good deal for the company and its employees but a good deal for the travelling public also.