asked the Minister for Communications if in the event of the CIE dispute continuing, he will be making alternative transport arrangements for Dublin commuters.

The extent of hardship on bus users arising from the disruption to CIE Dublin city services is being monitored, in accordance with the usual practice, in the context of assessing the need for emergency transport at any stage.

Would the Minister avail of this opportunity to confirm to the people of Dublin that he has a contingency plan in operation or on stand-by? Will he confirm that, as of now, he has consulted the Army authorities and, if necessary, the private bus authorities? Will he say when those consultations took place and what was their outcome?

There are several new questions contained in what the Deputy has asked. The normal practice in my Department, when a threat of a bus dispute arises, is that normal contingency plans are drawn up and discussions are held with the Army as to what services they would be able to provide. That is the extent of the contingency planning and reports which suggest anything else are incorrect. In so far as any emergency transport will be provided, it will be provided by the Army and only then if considered necessary.

The Minister is telling the House that he has a contingency plan available in the event of this situation worsening?

Yes, there is always a contingency plan.

And there is one now?

Yes.