Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 2001

Vol. 537 No. 5

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Jim Higgins

Question:

71 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of Bus Éireann school buses aged between one and five years; six and ten years; 11 and 15 years; 16 and 20 years; 21 and 25 years; 26 and 30 years; over 30 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16337/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The number of buses engaged to provide school transport services is currently 3,030, of which 698 are Bus Éireann school buses. The rest are provided by private contractors. This figure includes vehicles retained as spares and required for replacement purposes from time to time.

The number of Bus Éireann school buses in each age category specified by the Deputy is as follows:

0 to 5 years	2
6 to 10 years	11
11 to 15 years	107
16 to 20 years	499
21 to 25 years	53
26 to 30 years	26

Bus Éireann has a wide range of checking procedures 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 noticed by Bus Éireann's maintenance staff are dealt with immediately and a replacement vehicle is provided where necessary.

All school transport vehicles operated by Bus Éireann and private contractors are subject to an annual roadworthiness check and to regular inspections to ensure that their reliability is maintained throughout the year. The vehicles used in the school transport scheme meet all statutory regulations as required by the Department of the Environment and Local Government.

The condition of the school bus fleet is continually monitored to ensure that safety levels are adhered to at all times.