CCPC welcomes unanimous guilty verdict in school bus transport cartel case in Tipperary

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has welcomed the unanimous guilty verdict in the Central Criminal Court in the case of the Tipperary school bus transport cartel case.

The CCPC said: "This verdict follows a thorough investigation by the CCPC and represents a significant milestone in the enforcement of competition law in Ireland.

"The five accused have each been found guilty by a jury of three women and seven men of engaging in an anti-competitive concerted practice contrary to sections 4 and 6 of the Competition Act 2002 (as amended).

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"The offences occurred in respect of a tender competition for the provision of publicly funded school transport services across the Southwest region.

"These practices, also known as “bid-rigging” or collusive tendering, undermine fair competition and have the potential to increase costs for the taxpayer and limit choice for consumers.

"The individuals are Andrew Walsh, Anthony Flynn, Larry Hickey, Noel Browne and Raymond Heney. The case was presided over by Mr Justice David Keane."

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Chair of the CCPC, Brian McHugh, welcomed the outcome, saying:

“Cartels have a hugely detrimental effect on competition, on law-abiding businesses, and ultimately on taxpayers and consumers, who face paying higher prices and reduced choice.

“Today’s verdict sends a clear message that anti-competitive behaviour will not be tolerated. It’s a reminder to anyone involved in cartel conduct, or considering it, that the CCPC remains committed to taking robust action against such practices to protect fair competition and consumers.”

Sentencing is scheduled for 23 March, 2026.