Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 June 2017
76. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding establishing the multi-stakeholder forum to deal with future challenges faced by Bus Éireann which was promised in April 2017; the measures his Department is taking to secure the future of the company and its bus services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30173/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy is aware that I am committed to a dialogue with all public transport stakeholders in order to advance the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government to start a review of public transport policy.
I believe that this broad dialogue will allow for all stakeholders, including trade unions, a chance to inform the development of public transport policy in Ireland. I look forward to that dialogue and the participation of all relevant stakeholders. Preparations are at an early stage and I am sure the Deputy can appreciate that there will a considerable level of organisation and scheduling required if we are to have the type of meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas that I think we all want.
In advance of this dialogue, I have invited representatives of all CIÉ trade unions, as well as ICTU, to meet with me and explain their issues of concern that have been expressed in recent months. Invitations issued last week and the meeting will take place in early July. I believe this meeting will provide unions with an opportunity to voice their views to me directly in relation to any issues of policy concern they might have.
In relation to Bus Éireann specifically, the Deputy is aware that acceptance of the Labour Court's Recommendation provides the basis for the Company to now move forward with building a successful and sustainable future. Implementation of the proposals contained within the Recommendation is a matter for the Company and its employees.
In terms of its PSO services, the Deputy is aware that those services are improving and expanding and that the taxpayers' contribution to those services is similarly increasing due to the increases I secured in Budget 2017. I have committed to seeking further increases in PSO funding in this year's Budget subject, of course, to the overall resources available.
