Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

They got bad because of the endemic neglect that has prevailed over the lifetime of all Governments from the foundation of the service. "If it is not broke, do not fix it" seemed to be the prevailing approach, yet when tragedy strikes we are horrified. We seek to find somebody else to blame. The reality about the school bus issue is the same as the reality about road safety. We have not been honest and objective appraisers of our own shortcomings. We need fresh resolve, a frank analysis of shortcomings and a comprehensive resolution to the problems.

I commend and salute the Minister of State, Deputy de Valera, for the manner in which she has outlined her commitment to giving absolute priority to the school bus and school transport system.