Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 29 Jun 1999

Vol. 507 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Transport.

John McGuinness

Question:

305 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to a written complaint made regarding the unsafe condition of a school bus operating in Carlow town (details supplied); if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that the driver has complained to the health and safety authorities on the matter; and the action, if any, to be taken in this case which dates back to 1997. [16754/99]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

Bus Éireann operates the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department and is responsible for the safe condition of the vehicles in use. Bus Éireann has a wide range of checking procedures in place to ensure a safe and reliable service.

Bus Éireann vehicles are serviced every six weeks under specified maintenance procedures to ensure that the highest safety standards are achieved. Any faults coming to the notice of Bus Éireann's maintenance staff are dealt with immediately.

All school transport vehicles operated by Bus Éireann and private contractors are subject to an annual roadworthiness check and to regular inspection to ensure that their reliability is maintained throughout the year.

I can advise the Deputy that the vehicle in question has met all the statutory safety regulations as required by the Department of the Environment and Local Government. I understand Bus Éireann has dealt with the formal complaint by the bus driver in this case.