Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 10

Written Answers. - School Transport Service.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

71 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education if she has compared the costs and dangers of transporting children by bus to distant schools with the costs and possible benefits of using information technology such as radio, television, videos, video phone, computers and other such equipment; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

My Department has no plans to undertake a cost benefit analysis of replacing the school transport service on the basis outlined by the Deputy.

The operating costs of the school transport scheme, which in 1993 will be in the region of £39m., are under constant review to ensure an efficient and cost-effective service. Indeed, the Deputy may be aware that two detailed consultancy studies have been conducted into the operation of the scheme in recent years. I have made both of these studies available to interested parties to facilitate a fully informed debate on the best means of operating this service in the future and I will give full consideration to any proposals put forward in this regard.

I would be somewhat concerned at the Deputy's reference to the "dangers of transporting children", lest it be interpreted as suggesting deficiencies in the present system as far as the safety of children is concerned. In this regard, I am satisfied that Bus Éireann, which operates the scheme on my behalf, are fully conscious of their responsibilities and indeed are justifiably proud of their safety record in operating the school transport service. Nor do I consider that the distances which children are currently required to travel are such as to justify the approach suggested by the Deputy.

I should also make the point that attendance at school is not only educationally beneficial to pupils but has the added and very important social benefit of allowing children to mix with their peers and to gain from this experience.