Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 15 Apr 1997

Vol. 477 No. 5

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Michael P. Kitt

Ceist:

236 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Education the current position on the results of a school transport survey (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the proposals, if any, she has to improve the service. [9883/97]

Minister for Education (Ms Bhreathnach)

My Department is aware of the survey referred to by the Deputy, which highlighted concerns regarding the mechanical safety of the buses used under the school transport scheme, and double tripping on school bus routes.

I can assure the Deputy that safety standards of vehicles for school transport is of paramount importance to my Department and to Bus Éireann, who operate the scheme on its behalf. All school transport vehicles operated by Bus Éireann and private contractors are subject to an annual roadworthiness check. Regular inspections are carried out to ensure that their reliability is maintained throughout the year. All vehicles in the scheme are fully compliant with Department of Environment legislation.

The standard of vehicles used in school transport is subject to Bus Éireann's policy of continuous fleet replacement. Three replacement buses have been introduced on the route in question over the past year or so.

In order to ensure that school transport vehicles are fully utilised in the most efficient and cost effective manner, individual vehicles are often required to operate a double trip. The services operating to the post-primary centre in question generally operate on a first-in first-home arrangement, and the travelling and waiting times for the pupils in this instance are within my Department's guidelines. Accordingly, I am satisfied with the current arrangements.