asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the Minister for Finance made a statement recently which implied that omnibuses of Córas Iompair Éireann had been left idle in the company's depôts when needed to provide travelling facilities for the public; whether he has made any inquiry in this matter; and, if so, whether he will make a statement on the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Omnibuses Left Idle.
The company's system of maintenance involves the periodic withdrawal of buses from regular services for overhaul. In view of the new buses now coming into service, the company agreed, at my request, to suspend the overhaul programme, and a number of additional buses have thus been released for service in the city during peak hours.
May I ask if, in fact, the Minister for Finance was talking through his hat?
Not at all.