MINISTER for Transport Noel Dempsey has shelved plans to privatise some bus services in Dublin.

CONGESTION is costing Dublin Bus EUR60million a year out of a total subsidy of EUR80million, the Joint Committee on Transport has heard. Bill McCamley, Siptu worker director, said Dublin Bus also paid VAT on its subsidy.

Fares on all Bus Eireann, Iarnrod Eireann, DART and Dublin Bus services are increasing by an average of 5%. The move follows a 4% rise in LUAS fares that came into force in the capital on Monday.

By GEORGINA O'HALLORAN THE bus protest that crippled swathes of Dublin is over after the Labour Court capitulated to drivers demands.

SIPTU's Willie Noone on his way into the talks today said he was hopeful of a resolution. The row centres on rostering arrangements for new routes from the Harristown Bus Depot. Drivers claim that starting, finishing and taking breaks in the city centre will lengthen their working day.