(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Education if he will consider amending the regulations whereby primary pupils may be permitted to travel as fare-paying passengers in circumstances where there is adequate bus accommodation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Transport.
142.
I presume that what the Deputy has in mind are the special buses which are engaged in the transport of children to post-primary schools. I feel that these buses should not be used to transport children past rural national schools to schools in the cities and towns.
143.
asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that students travelling by CIE who were in an age bracket 16 to 19 years have had this age bracket for the reduction in fares abolished and are now included in a higher-priced age bracket from 16 to 21 years; and whether he is further aware of the deterring effect of these increases on students wishing to pursue secondary education; and whether he will provide the necessary funds to ensure that the transport costs of these students will not be increased.
Mr. O'Malley
I am aware that the alterations to CIE's fare structure which were effected from 1st January, 1968, involved a considerable increase in the season ticket charges for school-children, but I have no function in regard to this matter.
As the Deputy is aware, the company has decided to modify the impact of these alterations and to reduce student season-ticket fares as from Monday next, 5th February.
Students in the 16-19 age bracket will now pay approximately three-fifths of the adult fare.
The transport scheme being operated under the aegis of my Department ensures that every eligible child living three miles or more from the nearest post-primary centre is provided with free transport to that centre.
I am aware, however, that some pupils of their own volition travel to centres other than the one nearest to their homes. I could not accept any responsibility for the travelling expenses of such pupils.
144.
asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that in relation to a school (details supplied) CIE has engaged a taxi firm to provide transport in substitution for a similar entirely satisfactory service which was provided for years by another taxi group, without giving that group any opportunity to tender for the continuation of the service; and if he will have steps taken to restore the operation of the services to the taxi group which gave every satisfaction in the past.
Mr. O'Malley
The day to day administration of school transport services has been assigned to Córas Iompair Éireann. Accordingly, my Department has no connection with the selection of contractors for these services. I understand, however, that the present contract for the service in question was placed by CIE on the basis of the lowest tender which had been received by the manager of the school.