Bus Éireann is subject to two systems of audit inspection, both of which are independent of Bus Éireann.
In addition to the independent audit inspection undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers that the Deputy alluded to, CIE Group Internal Audit also conduct regular audits on Bus Éireann offices.
The Company also has an Audit Review Group in place, which includes members of the Board of Bus Éireann, providing further oversight.
The annual statement of account prepared by Bus Éireann includes an audit opinion provided by Bus Éireann's external auditors. For 2014 and prior years the opinion states that the financial information of Bus Éireann's School Transport Scheme is prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with the Summary of Accounting Arrangements relating to the Transport Scheme for Primary and Post-Primary School Children dated 1 January 1975.
In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation of a School Bus Statement of Account in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the School Bus Statement of Account.
The auditors have stated that they believe that the audit evidence they have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for their audit opinion.
In light of the foregoing I am satisfied with the assurances given by Bus Éireann in this regard.
