Opposition queries uptake of decentralisation plan

WELL over half the 200 Bus Éireann employees earmarked for decentralisation to Mitchelstown, Co Cork, cannot be transferred because they are bus drivers and mechanics who need to be based in Dublin.

The anomaly was brought up by Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny yesterday who said a maximum of 80 jobs from the State-owned bus company could be transferred, comprising those working in administration. The disclosure is likely to cause embarrassment to Finance Minister Charlie McCreevy and his controversial plan to decentralise 10,000 civil servants from the capital.

When unveiling the plans in his December Budget speech, he said 200 Bus Éireann jobs would be transferred to the town.