Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There has been an increase in the number of tickets issued this year, with more than 140,000 issued. The numbers travelling on our bus services have increased significantly over the past number of years, at 38% over a five-year period.

As the Deputy and I have both highlighted, Bus Éireann is currently assessing the route and will continue to ensure the safety, and must ensure the safety, of all pupils on board school transport services.

I thank the Deputy for the opportunity to update him on the school transport system. In particular, I hope that, by the Deputy raising this matter in the Dáil, Bus Éireann will listen. It is responsible for operational matters on the ground, but it is required to do so efficiently and safely. I hope it will listen to the Deputy's pleas for the families and children in these areas.

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