Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)

An independent review requested by my colleague, the Minister for Transport, is currently being carried out within Bus Éireann. This review will look at the arrangements and systems in place for the management, operation and maintenance of the fleet of buses owned and contracted by Bus Éireann to ensure ongoing safety and roadworthiness. My officials will liaise with the Department of Transport regarding the outcome of the review.

Regular discussions are held between officials in the two Departments on matters pertaining to school transport operations. These discussions focus on such matters as seating and seat belt installations on school buses. Arising from contacts involving the two Departments, it was possible last year to announce a package of measures designed to enhance the safety of school transport operations. These measures include the phasing out of three-for-two seating arrangements and the installation of seat belts on all school buses. Arrangements are in hand to have these measures in place by the end of this year.

See this speech in context