Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
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Question 77: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the progress to date in 2006 in making buses safer and ending the three for two rule; if additional buses have been provided in order that a situation does not arise similar to August and September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5711/06]

Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I am determined to maintain safety at the core of school transport operations at all times. At this stage, apart from a small number of late applicants, seating arrangements for all second level students on buses operating under the post-primary school transport scheme are on a one-for-one basis. I expect that the end of year target to provide one-for-one seating for all students at first and second level will be met.

A contract for the retrofitting of the Bus Éireann school bus fleet with seat belts has been placed. It is expected that this work will commence this month and will take approximately 20 weeks. The work is being organised so as to ensure that there is no disruption to school transport services. In addition, a programme for Bus Éireann to acquire a number of new and modern second-hand buses is well advanced. It is intended that these buses will provide the necessary additional capacity to ensure that no shortfalls arise from the elimination of three-for-two seating arrangements. With regard to the retrofitting of contractors' vehicles, it is anticipated that the Department of Transport will issue guidelines shortly on the fitting and standard of safety belts required.

While I am satisfied with the progress that has been made over the past several months, I am in no doubt that a sustained effort will be required by all concerned as we work towards the stated goal of one-for-one seating, all fitted with seat belts.