Aircoach sells stake to British firm

THE private bus operator Aircoach has sold 90% of the company to British transport firm First Group for €15 million.

Aircoach managing director John O'Sullivan said that following the deal, Aircoach would take on CIÉ in both the Dublin bus market and the inter-city coach business.

Transport Minister Seamus Brennan this year announced proposals to break CIE up into its three constituent parts Irish Rail, Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus. One proposal is to allow 25% of the Dublin bus market open to competition next year.