Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
972. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has engaged with a union (details supplied) regarding the cash collection regime on bus services; and if consideration has been given to adopting a no cash approach to protect drivers. [5659/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has been clear that continued operation of the public transport sector is important, and it has been designated among the essential services that are to carry on. I would like to thank operators and staff for their continued dedication to providing this vital service in such challenging times. I have not engaged with the National Bus and Rail Union on the issue of the cash collection regime on bus services.
A number of measures have been introduced across the system, guided by public health advice, to ensure the continued operation of services during the pandemic, including enhanced cleaning regimes and social distancing measures across the network. My Department is engaging directly with the National Transport Authority (NTA) in relation to these measures and the NTA is coordinating the response of public transport operators.
Accordingly, 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.
