Public Transport 'Backbone Of Successful Country' - SF

Sinn Féin has said that a solid public transport infrastructure "is the backbone of any successful country".

The party's transport spokesperson, Dessie Ellis, said that Sinn Féin supported the drivers of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann against the privatisation of bus routes across the country.

Deputy Ellis said: "Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann, despite doing everything to successfully weather the worst of the crisis, are now being undermined by the government’s privatisation agenda. Drivers are now being forced to consider the route of industrial action due to the governments unwavering commitment to privatisation.

"This privatisation of 10% of routes will further undermine Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus and will put their futures in jeopardy. These companies provide a service that we cannot afford to lose and good jobs which we must protect. Their contribution to our society and our economy is immeasurable. For every country to be successful, a good place to live and to work, it needs quality transport infrastructure, public transport links and international connectivity.

"Investment in transport infrastructure and public transport and the retention of our connectivity through Aer Lingus is crucial to Ireland’s recovery and to building a society and an economy which leaves no one behind and no part of our island behind."

(MH/CD)