Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 135: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on the results of the recent survey showing that three quarters of secondary school pupils were not wearing seat belts when travelling in school buses; her further views on a new promotional campaign to ensure maximum compliance with seat belt regulations; if she is considering sanctions against persistent offenders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21603/07]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Over the last two years, a package of measures to enhance the safety of school transport operations has been put into effect. This includes the phasing out of three-for-two seating arrangements and the installation of seat belts on all vehicles operating under my Department's school transport scheme. Given the progress that has been made, it is of course disappointing to note that the rate of wearing of seat belts, especially in the case of post-primary students, is not higher. However, I would emphasise that the position is more encouraging at primary level and I would like to think that this is a positive trend which I will be seeking to reinforce.

I see education and awareness-building as the best approach to promoting safety-consciousness among school transport users and their parents. Towards that end, a safety campaign launched at the end of August, as children were preparing to return to school, highlighted the fact that it is the law to wear a seat belt and encouraged children to "belt up" whilst travelling on the school bus. In addition, my Department and Bus Éireann, in association with the Road Safety Authority, are currently examining the feasibility of a further safety campaign specifically aimed at older children.

Bus Éireann has also issued a circular to parents of children travelling on school transport, inviting their co-operation, and that of their children, to help make the school transport journey as safe and comfortable as possible. The circular emphasises the importance of safety, the consequences of misbehaviour and the disciplinary measures which may be necessary. I can assure the House that I will continue to promote safety-conscious behaviour on school transport services as a matter of the highest priority.

Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 136: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to review and reform the school transport system in view of the anomalies and injustices arising from the archaic catchment area boundaries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21565/07]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to review the school transport scheme, including catchment boundaries. My Department is currently considering how best to progress this task.