Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport Timmy Dooley has welcomed the fact that the Labour Relations Commission has invited parties in the ongoing bus dispute for exploratory talks this afternoon aimed at averting tomorrow’s strike action.
Deputy Dooley commented: “I hope the talks to take place at the LRC this afternoon will prove to be successful and that a way can be found to avoid massive disruption for commuters tomorrow. It is unfortunate that the Government has not been willing to change its position on beginning the privatisation of our publicly owned and operated bus services.
“In the event that these talks do not prove to be successful and tomorrow’s strike cannot be avoided then I will be asking the Government to sign the necessary order to open up bus lanes for public use. If the bus strike goes ahead more people will inevitably opt to drive into town tomorrow and every effort should be made to minimise the disruption to their commute.
“It’s clear to me that we are now in place that was fundamentally avoidable. The Government’s decision to press ahead with the privatisation of 10% of core bus routes has left a bitter taste with unions and has soured relations. Efforts need to be made to restore respect and trust among important partners in providing essential public services.”