Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 433: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of school buses over the age of 10 years, 15 years and 20 years; if she has satisfied herself with the condition and road worthiness of these buses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17062/06]

Síle de Valera (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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The specific information sought by the Deputy in relation to the ages of school buses is not readily available.

However, I can assure the Deputy that all vehicles operating under the School Transport Scheme are required to meet the statutory regulations as laid down by the Department of Transport. Where vehicles have over eight adult seats and are more than one year old, they are required to pass that Department's annual roadworthiness test.

In addition, Bus Éireann vehicles are subject to a routine scheduled maintenance programme to ensure that the highest safety standards are achieved. Contractors employed by Bus Éireann are contractually obliged to keep their nominated vehicle in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times.

I am satisfied, on the basis of information available to me from Bus Éireann, which operates the services on my Department's behalf, that these regulations are being adhered to and that, in consequence, the school bus fleet is roadworthy.