School Transport Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 February 2014

Thursday, 27 February 2014

Questions (100)

Clare Daly

Question:

100. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will confirm that in view of the fact that the EU Commission is investigating the school transport contract for both state aid and procurement infringements, and in view of the fact that the Committee of Public Accounts is investigating payments to Bus Éireann from his Department, and in view of the fact that Bus Éireann is apparently itself investigating, the reason he still accepts Bus Éireann's assurances that everything is fine with the school transport arrangement. [10123/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

I am not aware of the investigations referred to by the Deputy. In relation to the European Commission, I am aware that the Commission commenced an investigation with regard to State aid to Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus in 2007. The State's response was coordinated by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and my Department supplied any information required by the Commission. A decision on the investigation is awaited.

I am also aware that Bus Éireann, as employer, has investigated allegations against individual employees.