Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport Robert Troy says it is not acceptable for Minister Shane Ross to continue to take a back seat in addressing the crisis facing Bus Éireann.
The semi-State bus company is facing massive losses, with possible Expressway route closures on the cards and bosses floating the idea that staff overtime could be cut.
Deputy Troy stressed the importance of the Expressway service saying that it cannot be underestimated and that all parties involved in the process must examine how much money can be saved. With specific reference to the Minister for Transport he stated “Minister Ross has been aware of the financial problems at the company for months but has failed to engage with bosses or unions leading now to a collision course between the management and unions over cost-saving measures”.
According to Deputy Troy, reports suggest that cuts to overtime could be on the cards which would impact on services. “Steps must be taken to ensure that smaller towns and villages do not lose out on essential bus services if routes are overhauled. Rural areas, which have already suffered vastly reduced services, must be protected.”
Deputy Troy went on to criticise Minister Ross for failing to show any leadership. “Unless Minister Ross wakes up to the problems at Bus Éireann, the public will suffer the consequences once again,” he said, calling on all parties to work together on a viable solution to this escalating financial problem at Bus Éireann and to protect its future.
