Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for attending in person in the Chamber. I compliment Senator Dolan and her colleagues for tabling the motion. It is fair to say that school transport issues have always been a staple of political life in August and September. It has been at a much higher scale this year. This is a consequence of the positive changes made to reduce costs for families, which are to be welcomed. I commend the Minister and the Government on the decision. In areas such as Moycullen, which is outside Galway city, students travel to attend secondary school. Those in Moycullen predominantly go to Galway, with some going to Spiddal, Colaiste Cholmcille in Inverin or St. Paul's in Oughterard. They have to travel outside their own community. I am sure there are other examples around the country where people have no choice but to travel.

In recent years an issue has been the closest school rule. Changes have been made with regard to a second school, which have been positive for students who are close to a certain school but go to another school. The changes made over recent years have been welcome.

I acknowledge and commend my local Bus Éireann inspector on engaging on issues and being available to answer calls on cases. This might not be the same in all regions of the country. The local inspector in my area is able to provide information on what Bus Éireann might be able to offer as an alternative, providing bigger buses where possible or using a bus that goes to another school that is close by. There are solutions.

Driver age is a matter for Bus Éireann but there is an anomaly. As my colleague, Senator Carrigy, said, bus drivers over the age of 70 are able to drive to Belfast with pupils from a school but they cannot bring the same pupils from their own homes to school. This is an anomaly and if it could be looked at it would provide a quick solution. Even if it were for this year, pending the results of the review, it would provide a quick solution to the issue. We need to move to a situation whereby a bus is available for all students free of charge for whatever school they want to go to, within reason. The Minister has gone a long way towards this. I hope that over the coming weeks she will get the resources to ensure this issue is solved for all of the students and parents involved.