Infrastructure Minister Michelle Haywood says she doesn't know which bus routes are profitable because Bus Vannin doesn't collect the data.
She faced questions in the House of Keys this week from Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover.
Dr Haywood said as a whole, the taxpayer subsidises buses to the tune of £7 million a year.
But she said public transport on the Island is run for the good of the community rather than to make money:
Next to stay open after new deal reached
The Island's branch of Next is going to stay open, as a deal with the shop's landlord has been reached.
New Laxey Wheel visitor centre opens doors
Manx National Heritage is celebrating the opening of a new visitor centre at the Laxey Wheel.
Students urged to get meningitis jabs
Young people are being urged to get vaccinated against a strain of meningitis before going into further education.
MHK queries number waiting for public housing
How many people are currently waiting for public housing?
King to visit Island today
Douglas is preparing to welcome King Charles this morning.
Warning over parking suspensions for King's visit
Police are warning anyone parking where they shouldn't before the King's visit tomorrow may find their car towed away.
Peel residents outraged over toxic powder spread near young gull
Residents in Peel say they've contacted police after toxic powder was spread along a street to discourage seagulls.
Commissioners tackle beach rubbish after online criticism
Ramsey commissioners say they've listened to public criticisms about litter and bins at one of the town's beaches.
