A leading Unionist politician has claimed the influx of Donegal bus companies into Derry is not compliant with EU law. 
Outspoken TUV (Traditional Unionist Voice) MLA Jim Allister voiced his support for Bready businessman William Leonard who says he has been forced out of business due to 'breaches' in regulations that deal with haulage and transport in the EU.
Mr Leonard has stressed for years that awarding school contracts to companies in the Republic of Ireland does not comply with EU law.
Jim Allister has picked up the baton and is now quizzing the Environment Minister Mark Durkan on licensing obligations for bus companies from the Republic of Ireland tendering contracts in the UK.
Allister repeated the claims made by Mr Leonard and asked Durkan was the practices applied by coach companies from Donegal legal.
SDLP MP Mark Durkan said, "Bus companies from the south of Ireland may tender for local contracts provided they are properly licensed in their jurisdiction, hold an international operator’s licence and the contracted service is considered temporary.
“The service involving the carriage of school children and other such groups falls within the category of ‘Special Regular Services.’ A Special Regular Service must be covered by a contract between the organiser and the carrier which specifies the route, stopping places, group covered and schedule of service.