Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Mar 2002

Vol. 550 No. 4

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Jim Higgins

Question:

47 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the three-two rule in relation to seating in school buses; if he will consider the provision of seatbelts on all school buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7701/02]

Jim Higgins

Question:

86 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the three-two rule in relation to seating in school buses; if he will consider the provision of seatbelts on all school buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8316/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 86 together.

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 PSV – 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, which operates 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.

The safety aspects of school transport, including the three for two seating ratio and the provision of seat belts are 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 has just been completed and copies are available from my Department and the Department of the Environment and Local Government. Submissions are invited from all interested parties. When the submissions are received and examined consideration will 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.