Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 Jan 2002

Vol. 547 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

36 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the safety of the conditions in which many children travel on school buses with specific reference to the absence of seat belts and the frequent occurrence of children having to stand on the buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2772/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The loading on all school buses is determined by the relevant sections of the road traffic regulations (construction, equipment and use of vehicles) which are laid down by the Department of the Environment and Local Government. Under public service vehicle regulations, the licensed carrying capacity of all vehicles engaged in school transport is based on a ratio of three pupils for every two adult seats. Under existing regulations passenger seat belts are not compulsory in buses, including those operated under the school transport scheme.

Safety on school transport is of paramount importance to my Department and Bus Éireann, who operate the scheme on behalf of my Department. Great care is taken to ensure that loading does not exceed the maximum legal carrying capacity of the vehicles. All vehicles operating under the school transport scheme are required to meet the statutory regulations as laid down by the Department of the Environment and Local Government.

The safety aspects of school transport, including the three for two seating ratio and the provision of seat belts, is being examined by the school transport section of my Department together with Bus Éireann and the Department of the Environment and Local Government. This report will be completed very shortly. Consideration will than be given to the question of what improvements can be put in place to further improve the safety of the children who use the service.