No knowledge of complaints that could lead to contract termination between De Lijn and 't Ros Beiaard, says Minister De Ridder

Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder has stated that, to her knowledge, De Lijn has not received any complaints that would have justified terminating its contract with the bus company 't Ros Beiaard. This comes after it was revealed that there were multiple complaints regarding the driving of the chauffeur involved in a fatal bus accident in Buggenhout last week.

Ex-bus attendants and an internal email confirmed these prior complaints about the chauffeur's conduct. Kurt Moens, a provincial education deputy, confirmed that De Lijn was aware of the issues, as the bus company operated as a subcontractor for them. Moens indicated that complaints were typically shared with the bus company and sometimes De Lijn, with the latter often included in email correspondence.

Minister De Ridder explained that De Lijn has the authority to terminate contracts with charter companies for "serious contractual deficiencies," citing past instances of contract termination due to drivers operating uninsured vehicles. However, she currently has no knowledge of complaints lodged with De Lijn that would have led to such action. De Ridder also emphasized that employee supervision is the responsibility of the charter company, not De Lijn, though she declined to comment on specific responsibilities related to the accident. She noted that all relevant information is being provided to the investigating authorities, who will also examine the railway crossing's setup by Infrabel.