BUS ÉIREANN is proposing to scale back frequency on or discontinue about 50 of its existing routes as part of a cost-containment programme which was discussed with trade unions yesterday.
The company, which operates about 350 routes nationwide, has previously indicated it is seeking to shed some 320 staff, reduce its fleet by 150 vehicles and introduce new work practice changes as part of moves aimed at dealing with a potential €30 million financial deficit this year.
The company did not say last night which services would be affected by the cutbacks.
It is understood that the company has also proposed deferring pay increases under the national wage deal, introducing a general ban on external recruitment as well as reducing some shift-work rates under the cost-containment plan.
Sources said Bus Éireann was also looking at measures such as the withdrawal of compensation for loss of earnings as a result of changes in work practice and disturbance allowance for any staff who may have to move workplace as a result of the proposed restructuring.
The company last night described the four-hour clarification meeting with the trade unions yesterday as “productive”. The sides are to hold further talks next week.
Bus Éireann said it required the cost-containment plan to be finalised with trade unions by June 19th. It currently operates inter-city services across the country as well as local services between towns and city bus routes in Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Galway.
The company said its proposed changes were designed to protect as many services and jobs as possible.
