Vol. 517 No. 4
252 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 335 of 12 October 1999, he will establish the area of ground required at Coláiste Mhuire, Ballymote, to accommodate a parking bay for five buses; if an official of his Department will carry out a report and indicate the area required in view of the fact an area of land at the school may be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10074/00]
I have requested an official of my Department to contact the managerial authorities of Colaiste Mhuire, Ballymote to assess the situation raised by the Deputy.
253 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science the person responsible for the welfare of children on a school bus in the event of the bus breaking down and the driver leaving the bus to obtain assistance. [10075/00]
The driver of a school bus is responsible for the welfare of the children on the bus. The driver should only leave the bus where absolutely necessary and for the minimum period of time. Where possible he or she should enlist the aid of a passing motorist or someone residing nearby. When leaving the bus the driver should advise the children of the expected duration of absence and place the prefect or a senior pupil in charge or the escort in the case of a bus conveying special needs pupils. Every effort should be made to ensure that the safety of the children is not compromised.
The question of the provision of a communications system on school buses is being addressed at present, with a view to having such in place for the next school year.
