Vol. 497 No. 2
407 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to improve the school bus service (details supplied) to Coláiste Mhuire secondary school, Crosshaven, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24758/98]
The service to which the Deputy refers is operated by a large bus operating within its legal carrying capacity. It has a first pick-up time of 7.46 a.m. and last set down of 4.13 p.m., while school hours are 8.55 a.m. to 3.40 p.m. Pupils on this route who are collected first in the morning are delivered home first in the evening.
Some of the pupils who offer for this service are less than three miles from the school and so, under the terms of the scheme, qualify only for fare paying transport. This is subject to accommodation being available and no additional State cost being involved. I understand the bus is full at present. However, if room becomes available for these pupils they may avail of fare paying transport on this vehicle.
