Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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625. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his view on Bus Éireann's restructuring of the Expressway service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39904/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I have been consistently clear since assuming office that issues relating to pay and conditions in any particular State owned company under my Department's aegis are a matter for discussion and agreement between the employer and the employees.

I am aware that Bus Éireann is considering options designed to address its significant financial losses which result from its commercial Expressway service. The formulation and progression of those plans is a matter for Bus Éireann. Bus Éireann has engaged consultants to independently review the options available to it as it seeks to address these losses.

In addition the Deputy is also aware that the Company has indicated its desire to discuss the Expressway issue with trade unions.  I am firmly of the belief that difficult issues such as this can only be resolved through open, constructive and realistic engagement between the company and its employees and I do not propose to comment on the detail of any proposals that might be put to Trade Unions to address the serious challenges facing Bus Eireann.  

As shareholder, however, I do have a view that Bus Eireann's serious financial challenges should be tackled decisively and effectively so that the company can be viable and serve its customer base on a sustainable basis.

The Deputy will know that, at last week's Labour Court hearing, the Court decided it will not issue a recommendation on the basis that the company is finalising  its reorganisation plan which is due for completion by the end of January 2017. I hope that both sides engage in realistic and constructive discussions which can address the difficult challenges Bus Éireann faces and I know the Court has indicated its willingness to assist if required.