Dáil debates
Thursday, 17 October 2019
Ceisteanna ar Reachtaíocht a Gealladh - Questions on Promised Legislation
12:35 pm
Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source
I want to raise an issue of unfairness and discrimination against men and women, but mainly men, over 70 who drive school buses and perhaps smaller minibuses transporting autistic children. The companies are contracted to the Department of Education and Skills. The drivers are barred from driving at 70 years of age. I agree there should be medical tests and eye tests twice per year but what is occurring is complete discrimination against people of 70. It is ageism at its worst. The drivers are well able to drive for private work. They can bring schoolchildren to matches or swimming classes but cannot bring them to and from school. The companies are finding it very difficult to get drivers. The drivers very often have considerable driving experience and are very careful and prudent. This matter should be examined by both the Department of Education and Skills in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport because what is occurring is discriminatory in the extreme.
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