asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the Board of Córas Iompair Éireann has recently declined to introduce a system of workmen's fares from Cabra to the city and whether, in view of the heavy burden of the present price of bus fares on workmen's wages, he will recommend to the board to reconsider their decision and to grant such facilities from Cabra to the city.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - City Workmen's Fares.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply which I gave on 31st October to a similar question, when I indicated that I had been informed by Córas Iompair Éireann that the question of the introduction of workers' fares had been fully considered by the board but that it had been decided that the suggestion was impracticable.
Has the Minister any information as to why it is impracticable?
The Deputy is, no doubt, aware that I have no responsibility in the matter. The company is obliged by law to make such charges as will enable it to meet its outgoings. In reply to the question addressed to them, the reply was that the introduction of workmen's fares was fully considered by the board and they considered the suggestion wholly impracticable. I understand that one of the difficulties which the company foresaw was that of distinguishing between workmen and others, and the problem that that would create.
Is the Minister aware that a similar system, such as I suggest, operates in most great industrial cities?
The Deputy must not take me as agreeing with Córas Iompair Éireann board's decision in the matter.
It was the Government of which the Deputy was a member that appointed the board.