Vol. 513 No. 6
148 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if the dispute in the appointment of minders on special school buses has been resolved; the discussions, if any, he has had with representatives of the boards of management of special schools in relation to the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3331/00]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that many of the schools involved have already confirmed their participation in the escort scheme and are proceeding to appoint their escorts. Indeed, I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the commitment shown by these schools in co-operating with the introduction of the scheme.
Some schools, while welcoming the funding made available for the scheme, had expressed practical concerns regarding its operation. For example, there was concern at the administrative burden involved in organising the service and at the difficulties which might arise regarding substitute cover if an escort was unavailable for duty on a particular day.
Such concerns have been the subject of discussion between officials of my Department and the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education – NABMSE – which represents the management authorities of the schools in question. Arising from these discussions, my Department advised the schools in question that savings which had resulted from the non-appointment of escorts over the period September to December 1999 could be used to engage administrative assistance with the introduction of the scheme. The schools were also advised that any savings resulting from escort duties being less than the assumed six hours per day could also be used to acquire administrative assistance. My Department also advised the schools that arrangements would be made for the local bus contractors delivering the transport services to arrange for substitute escorts in the event of an escort not reporting for duty on a particular day.
I appreciate that some practical difficulties may still arise in individual situations and my Department will make every effort to address any such situations. However, I am firmly of the view that the schools which cater for these special needs children on a daily basis are the most appropriate bodies to undertake the operation of the escort scheme. The schools are familiar with the children's needs and behaviours. They are dedicated to the children's welfare and are best placed to ensure that the escort scheme operates in a manner which ensures the safety of the children and provides parents with the reassurance which they require.
Since my appointment as Minister for Education and Science, I have met the national association of boards of management in special education and confirmed the above view. I have requested the association to use its best endeavours to ensure that all the schools involved proceed with the implementation of the scheme. I am hopeful that substantial and early progress can be made on this matter, in the interests of the children concerned and their parents.
