Private Bus Operators

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 March 2015

Tuesday, 31 March 2015

Ceisteanna (712)

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

712. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in view of the fact that Ulster Bus has been awarded licences for certain routes, such as the Buncrana to Derry route, and that Ulster Bus is subsidised by the United Kingdom Government, the measures that have been put in place to ensure fair competition for private Irish bus operators not in receipt of any subsidy or State aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13010/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As the company referred to by the Deputy is registered in Northern Ireland, the competent authority for the purposes of issuing international bus transport authorisations is the Driver and Vehicle Agency of Northern Ireland. The competent authority for Irish registered bus operators is the National Transport Authority (NTA). The NTA is aware of the matter raised by the Deputy and I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.