Micheál Martin: ‘Hidden’ Government agenda at heart of escalating Bus Éireann crisis

He said the underlying reason for what is happening is that Government wants to "undermine" costly public transport services.

A "hidden" Government agenda to "undermine the very concept of a public transport company" is at the heart of the escalating Bus Éireann crisis, it has been claimed, writes political correspondent Fiachra Ó Cionnaith.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin made the allegation during the latest leaders questions debate on Wednesday, saying he has "a real, deep sense" that the actions of Government and Transport Minister Shane Ross are being driven by this "ideology".