Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 3

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

297 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will communicate with Bus Éireann regarding a problem being experienced by students and their parents at a national school (details supplied) in County Offaly whereby, when the children are given a half day at school, the school buses do not operate to bring them home which causes severe difficulties to the students and their parents; the way in which this problem can be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3838/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I understand that the bus service referred to by the Deputy involves a number of schools, including the school in question, and therefore is constrained from providing an additional service on days on which the school closes for a half day. Where schools share transport, they are expected to co-ordinate services in an effective and efficient manner, particularly in regard to school holidays and closures.

I regret that it would not be open to my Department to provide additional transport services to facilitate schools which alter their closing times to such an extent that they cannot be co-ordinated with other services in their area.