Vol. 575 No. 1
62 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding his discussions with the CIE Group of trade unions regarding the future of CIE; when the last meeting was held; when the next meeting is planned; the progress which has been made with regard to meeting concerns of the workers regarding security of employment, pensions and terms and conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27829/03]
64 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding his proposals for the restructuring of CIE; the discussions he has had with the trade unions representing CIE workers on these proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27832/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 62 and 64 together.
As I have stated in the past I am anxious to consider the genuine concerns of CIE employees regarding the reform of public transport and the future of CIE and how it might impact on their livelihoods and future careers. But it must also be recognised that these interests need to be balanced against the requirements of public transport users and the wider national interest in an efficient and effective public transport system.
In this context and arising from a meeting I had with ICTU leaders in July, phased discussions on public transport regulatory reform involving officials of my Department and representatives of the CIE unions recommenced on 10 September 2003. Parallel discussions are also taking place with the managements of Bus Átha Cliath and Bus Éireann. The initial phase of discussions focused on the principles of public transport policy, phase two on the regulatory framework and the final phase will focus on the detailed aspects of regulatory reform of public transport. Three meetings have taken place to date, most recently on 1 October, and further meetings are planned at dates to be agreed. I understand from officials in my Department that the discussions to date have progressed reasonably well.
It was agreed that the current discussions would focus primarily on regulatory reform. However, it is intended that there will be discussions with the trade unions in due course on the restructuring of CIE. In the meantime, my Department is continuing its technical preparatory work on both regulatory reform and CIE restructuring.
As I have indicated on a number of occasions previously, it is my intention to proceed with the necessary legislation in 2004.
Question No. 63 answered with Question No. 14.
Question No. 64 answered with Question No. 62.
