SIPTU representatives have said that the additional €1 billion investment in public transport announced in Budget 2021 will not be sufficient to deal with the massive impact of the Covid-19 crisis on oil services. SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Murphy, said: “The announcement yesterday (Tuesday, 13th October) of an additional €1 billion investment in public transport in 2021 will not be sufficient to deal with the adverse effect of Covid-19 restrictions on the sector. The restrictions have had a dramatic impact on passenger numbers on all forms of public transport with a resulting massive fall off in income for services. “While the extra funding which is being provided for an expansion of rail and bus services is welcome it will fall short in supporting existing public transport provision.” He added: “During this crisis the value of frontline workers across sectors such as the health services, distribution and transport has been made very clear. With no end in sight of the current crisis significantly more investment will be needed in 2021 to support public transport services.” SIPTU TEAC Division Organiser, Karan O Loughlin, said: “We understand that public finances are being stretched but the Government must recognise the value of public transport services to the economy of every city, town and village across the country. In these difficult times, public transport must be maintained, supported and the recognition of its role in our economy fully valued.”
SIPTU says Budget 2021 fails to deal with impact of the Covid-19 crisis on public transport
