asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in the light of the position disclosed by the accounts of C.I.E. that the population of Dublin has been, in effect, subsidising transport for the benefit of the provincial population, he will convey representations to the board concerning the urgent need for cheaper fares for workers and school children living in the Ballyfermot, Crumlin and Finglas areas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Bus Fares.
The Board of C.I.E. are charged with a statutory duty to balance their budget and they are also empowered to fix such charges as the board think fit for the services provided. In these circumstances any representations the Deputy may wish to make on the matter mentioned should be made direct to the board.
I may say, however, that when the question of cheaper fares for workers was raised some time ago I was informed by the board that the question had been considered by them on a number of occasions over the past few years but that serious practical difficulties rendered such a scheme inoperable. School children are, of course, entitled to reduced fares on all the board's Dublin City services. I understand also that in the cases of Ballyfermot and Finglas, where there is insufficient school accommodation, the greater part of the cost of transport for bringing the children to city schools is met by the Department of Education.