132 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she has given consideration to denying licences to private bus operators which do not participate in the free travel scheme for the elderly; the number of licences in the possession of private bus operators which do not operate within the free travel scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7950/02]

The administration of the free travel schemes is a matter for the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs and my Department is not in possession of figures regarding the numbers of operators not participating in the schemes. The relevant legislation, the Road Transport Act, 1932, does not provide a legal basis for the imposition of any requirement upon licensees to participate in the schemes. Where appropriate the attention of successful licence applicants is drawn to the schemes.

Question No. 133 answered with Question No. 124.