Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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93. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has had any engagement with Dublin Bus drivers or their trade unions in relation to the current industrial relations dispute at the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44114/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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At the outset I would like to clarify that industrial relations issues in Dublin Bus, as is the case for all public transport operators, are a matter for the company, its employees and trade union groups. While my Department receives regular  updates from Dublin Bus on industrial relations issues, neither I nor my Department have a direct role in and nor do we intervene in such operational matters. 

As you will be aware, the Agreement was rejected by c. 98% following a ballot of members on the 12th August. I understand that the primary reason for the rejection of the proposal was the concern of drivers in relation to the proposed changes to work-practices.

I have been advised that both Dublin Bus Management and the relevant Trade Union officials believe that there remains an appropriate industrial relations process to engage with and the parties confirmed that they have commenced further engagement on this matter.

I would like to reiterate that, ultimately, all issues related to pay and productivity negotiations are a matter solely for the transport company, employees and trade unions.