Mr. Thomas O'Connor:

The schools' contract is run on behalf of the Department of Education and Skills by Bus Éireann. In the main, almost 90% of the trips are covered by indigenous coach and bus operators but the contract has been in place since 1975. Massive investment is required in schools that will aid us in social distancing and the fight against climate change. There needs to be a place on a dedicated school bus for every child who requires it and that will require funding. People must come up with a plan and with the investment for the sake of our schoolchildren and for society.