The meeting was to discuss the recently commissioned report by the Department of Transport, entitled Cost and Efficiency Review of Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann.

According to the report, both companies are in the process of introducing environmental efficiency changes and other measures to improve cost efficiencies.

Among them are plans to use newer engines in the fleet, which will help to cut down on overall carbon emissions.

The report concludes that rolling replacements to the fleet are justified in part on this basis for both firms.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, committee chairman Frank Fahey TD said: “The report published last month is a comprehensive policy document on how to improve the efficiency and delivery of bus services throughout the country.

“By speaking to the minister with responsibility for this vital area we will be able to establish details and timelines of when these changes will be implemented.”

However, the report also warns that Dublin Bus could be making more efficient use of its current fleet.

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