Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 3

Written Answers. - School Transport System.

John Connor

Question:

92 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Education her views on whether the school transport system is working satisfactorily, whether it needs complete and urgent overhaul; and the proposals, if any, she has for the future of the scheme.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

The school transport scheme comprises a complex and integrated nationwide service, involving the daily transportation of approximately 165,000 children, on 2,400 vehicles. The cost to the Exchequer of operating the scheme in 1992 was £34.300 million.

A principal objective of the scheme is to provide a basic level of service for children who live a long distance from school and who might otherwise experience difficulty in attending regularly. The operation of the scheme is kept under constant review to ensure an efficient and cost-effective service.