Vol. 494 No. 4
466 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to introduce legislation which would make seat belts in buses, especially school buses, compulsory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18766/98]
Legislation regarding the fitting and use of seat belts in public vehicles is the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment and Rural Development. Bus Éireann, who operate the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department, are fully compliant with all relevant regulations as laid down by the Department of the Environment and Rural Development.
I would like to take the opportunity to reassure the Deputy that the school transport scheme operated by Bus Éireann on behalf of my Department is carried out with the safety of pupils as the primary consideration and takes precedence over all other aspects of the operation.
