Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Mar 2003

Vol. 562 No. 4

Written Answers - Semi-State Bodies.

Seán Crowe

Question:

368 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the widespread belief among employees of Dublin Bus that they face job losses in the event of a privatisation of same; if he will reassure these men and women that their jobs are not under threat; the discussions which have taken place within his Department regarding privatisation of public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6190/03]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I have made it clear on a number of occasions that I have no plans to privatise Dublin Bus. There is, therefore, no threat to jobs in the company in that regard. As regards proposals for the introduction of competition in the Dublin market by way of franchising, I indicated in my statement of 7 November last that this would be implemented in a way which protects the security and terms of employment of existing bus workers.