Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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74. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding industrial relations at Bus Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21965/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​The Deputy is aware that trade union members are currently balloting on a Labour Court Recommendation. That Recommendation issued following a period of intensive discussions between both trade unions and management at both the Workplace Relations Commision and the Labour Court. I know that trade union members have been considering the Recommendation in great detail, and its implications for both them and the Company, ahead of their ballot. I believe those members should be allowed the opportunity to exercise their vote freely without undue external pressures or influence.

I am in absolutely no doubt as regards the seriousness of the situation facing the Company. I believe Bus Éireann has a vital role to play in providing transport services and I have committed toward building upon the increased funding I have already provided to the Company in relation to supporting and expanding its PSO bus services in the years ahead.