asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that there are many citizens in the Finglas area, Dublin, who are being denied their fundamental rights to public transport facilities because it is alleged by CIE that they are not getting the co-operation from the Garda which they claim is essential for the restoration of the service in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Public Transport.
449.
Limerick East): I have no knowledge of the allegation attributed to CIE in the question.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that because of attacks on buses and bus crews serving the Finglas area, the crews have, since last May, been refusing to take buses to Finglas West and South after 9 p.m. each evening. A number of meetings about the matter have been held between representatives of CIE, union officials and local Garda. A particular measure which might possibly be taken by bus crews was suggested by the Garda but was not regarded favourably by the unions. In addition, assurances were given that a substantial amount of Garda assistance would be provided but these assurances were not regarded as adequate by the unions and apparently they hoped for a virtual guarantee that no further attacks would take place. I regret that that is is not feasible. The Garda will, however, continue to take all practicable steps within the resources available to them to ensure the safe passage of buses serving Finglas. I might add that I understand that another proposal to resolve the situation has recently been put by CIE to the unions for consideration.