asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether he has any plan to meet the growing deficit in the running operations of CIE; and whether the subsidy arrangements will continue.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Deficit.
7.
As I indicated in reply to several parliamentary questions on Thursday, 29th October, 1970, about the recent increases in CIE fares and rates, the progressively deteriorating financial position of CIE is at present being investigated by a joint committee of my Department, the Department of Finance and CIE with a view to identifying possible corrective measures.
The present subsidy of £2.65 million per annum was fixed by the Transport Act, 1964 (section 6) Order, 1969, for the five years ending 31st March, 1974. Any alteration in these arrangements will require new legislation.
Has consideration been given to the separation of the general operations in Dublin from those in the rest of the country?
I shall be saying a great deal more about this shortly. As I said in the House last week, the whole question of the future of CIE is under close examination.
But the Minister agrees that the Dublin services are an economic proposition?
This raises many complex social problems.
I know that, but is it being considered?
It is being considered.