My Department does not have statistical information regarding accidents involving pri mary school pupils being transported to school by privately contracted services outside of the school transport scheme. With regard to the services provided under the school transport scheme, my Department and Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department, place special emphasis on safety. Bus Éireann has a very good safety record in the operation of the school transport scheme and has an ongoing commitment to highlight awareness of safety involving school transport.
A wide range of checking procedures are in place to ensure safety. Regular safety promotions involving pupils, parents, and teachers, are also undertaken. Instructions to school bus drivers emphasise the importance of safety and include a special instruction to constantly remind pupils to exercise the greatest care in crossing roads when boarding or alighting from school buses. In addition, a safety notice is placed at exit doors as a reminder to pupils as they leave the bus. All Bus Éireann school buses are clearly identifiable and carry the international symbol for school children. Private contractors' buses also have a school children sign fitted to front and rear screens.
The school transport scheme involves travel throughout the entire country in both remote rural areas and populous urban centres. All routes are examined with regard to the suitability of the roads for the various types of vehicle used. Safe set-down, turning and pick-up points are carefully selected, always with safety in mind. In the planning of routes, road conditions, traffic hazards, and all other aspects of safety are considered. Services are monitored and, if conditions deteriorate or dangers arise, they are revised to ensure safety.
In view of the safety procedures in place and having regard to Bus Éireann's very good safety record, it is considered that the presence of a person, in addition to the driver, would not significantly improve safety matters on school buses.