School Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020

Tuesday, 14 July 2020

Ceisteanna (141, 265)

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

141. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has approved the cancellation by Dublin Bus of all school transport contracts operated by private bus companies in the Dublin area; his plans for the way in which those private bus operators that depend on school transport contracts will continue in business if the school transport contracts are cancelled; his further plans for the way in which and by which service operator a comprehensive school transport service is to be provided at least to the level previously provided when the schools reopen if the private school transport contracts are cancelled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14954/20]

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

265. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a series of matters relating to the non-renewal of school transport contracts (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15964/20]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 141 and 265 together.

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The School Transport Scheme comes under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Education and Skills. Bus services outside of that scheme are part of the overall public transport sector. Day-to-day management and operational aspects of public transport are the responsibility of the individual operators, in this case Dublin Bus, in conjunction with the National Transport Authority (NTA).

Accordingly, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.