Michael Collins (Cork South-West, Independent Ireland Party)

The expansion of the fare scheme to include commercial operators, specifically the inclusion of commercial operators in the free public transport initiative for the under-nines, is a must as we go forward. We cannot have a two-tier system, which will lead, if it continues, to private bus operators going out of business.

The Minister mentioned the school transport service catering for 178,000 people. However, hundreds cannot get a transport services for different reasons. Sometimes, it is almost impossible to get any communication from Bus Éireann. At one time, we, as public representatives, could get a response from it. Now, we cannot get a response from the Minister or Bus Éireann. I urge that someone in the Department at least get us answers for parents who have children stranded on the side of the road.

The over-70s issue has been kicked from pillar to post. We hear it is Bus Éireann's issue and then that the Minister will not make a decision. Someone has to stand up here and make a decision, and make it quickly. This has been going on for the nine years I am in the Dáil. People over 70 years of age having a medical certificate proving their health surely should make them eligible to drive a bus and pick up many of the children who have been left on the side of the road since the beginning of this school term.

See this speech in context