Vol. 500 No. 4
359 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the standards of school buses being used, some of which were first registered in 1978 and whose heaters, if any are fitted, are totally inadequate; if his attention has been further drawn to the serious overcrowding on the buses; the reason there are no safety belts on these buses; and the plans, if any, he has to address these serious problems. [3997/99]
Bus Éireann's policy of continuous fleet replacement facilitates the improvement of the quality of vehicles used in the operation of the school transport scheme and provides a better standard of service for pupils. The condition of the school bus fleet is continually monitored to ensure that adequate safety levels are adhered to at all times. Replacement buses introduced to the school transport fleet in 1994 were re-seated and had suitable heating systems installed. These vehicles are now operating satisfactorily on many routes throughout the country. All school buses are fitted with heating and de-misting systems.
The loading on school buses is determined by the relevant sections of the Road Traffic Regulations (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) which are laid down by the Department of the Environment and Local Government. Under PSV – Public Service Vehicle – regulations, the licensed carrying capacity of all vehicles engaged in school transport is based on a ratio of three pupils for every two adult seats.
Legislation regarding the fitting and use of seat belts in public vehicles is the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment and Local Government. Under existing regulations passenger seat belts are not compulsory in buses, including those operated under the school transport scheme. However, under the Government's strategy for road safety, the Department of the Environment and Local Government, in consultation with my Department, is committed to developing a strategy for safety on school transport. In this context, my Department has requested Bus Éireann to consider the wide range of safety issues associated with the operation of the school transport scheme, including the matter of seat belts, and to assess the operational and financial implications of these proposals.
