Ulick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 323: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide funding for the provision of a supervisor on all school buses to eliminate potential distractions to the driver; if she will provide for the provision of warning flashing lights to avoid injuries to students getting off school buses especially during the hours of darkness; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24290/07]

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

My Department allocates funding to schools to enable them to employ escorts on school transport services. These escorts are specifically engaged to cater for children with special educational needs whose care requirements are such as to necessitate continuous support. My Department has no plans currently to provide funding for the provision of supervisors on all school buses.

The Deputy will be aware that all dedicated school transport buses are now equipped with safety belts and pupils are required by law to wear these belts. In addition, Bus Éireann has 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.

A Warning Flashing Light pilot scheme on school buses was launched in Ennis, County Clare in 2005. It is planned to extend the pilot scheme shortly, in three specific areas, with a view to further testing the effectiveness of the equipment.