Gerry Reynolds
Question:118 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to review the safety standards on school buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3346/00]
Written Answers. - School Transport.
The overall operation of the school transport scheme is constantly under review, to ensure that the best and safest possible service is delivered.
Bus Éireann, which operates the service on behalf of my Department places special emphasis on safety and, to this end, has a wide range of checking procedures in place to ensure a safe and reliable service which are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure that standards are maintained
The report by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Science on school transport in Ireland deals with a broad range of transport issues, including safety. A full assessment of the various recommendations in the report is being carried out.
As soon as the assessment is completed I will give serious consideration to the recommendations including those relating to safety, in consultation with my colleague, Deputy O'Dea, Minister of State with responsibility for school transport.