Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

First, I express the sympathy of the House to the family, relatives and community of the 15 year old person who was killed in this tragic accident. This is a sad and black day for them and I pass on the sympathy of the Government and all Members. We wish a speedy and full recovery to the 12 people who were brought to hospital and understand the shock experienced by all others involved.

This was a tragic accident involving a school bus taking children to Killina Presentation secondary school in Rahan, County Offaly. As Deputy Kenny noted, the midlands accident and emergency master plan was put into full operation and ambulances from Portlaoise, Tullamore and Athlone attended the scene. I understand that my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Hanafin, will visit the families and the school later this evening to extend my deepest sympathy to them all.

The Garda is investigating fully the circumstances of the tragic event to establish the causes of the accident and any contributory factors relating to it. Members will appreciate that it would be inappropriate of me to make further comment until I receive the details. In so far as I can reply to some of Deputy Kenny's questions, my understanding, based on information from Bus Éireann, is that the operation in question was not a contracted school bus, but a private hire management. Vehicles engaged in private hire are licensed by the Garda Síochána for a large public service licence. They are required to undergo an annual roadworthiness test undertaken at the authorised test centres which are appointed by the local authorities. I understand the bus in question was the subject of its annual roadworthiness test at the outset of the school year last September. I understand that while it was not necessary for the bus to be licensed with the Department of Transport, the operator was required to be, and was so licensed.

There was much discussion on this issue in this House last year after the tragic accident in Meath. We continue with the process of fulfilling our own regulations and the EU directives regarding seat belts on vehicles. A number of issues arise in this respect that are ongoing at present. That work will continue. I again give our sympathy to the families concerned.

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