Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 184: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements that have been made in relation to the school transport system for 2009; if new contracts will be drawn up with Bus Éireann in relation to this; the expected increase or reduction in cost to the Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26933/09]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Bus Éireann is responsible for the operation of the School Transport Scheme on behalf of my Department. Approximately 135,000 children avail of school transport services on a daily basis using some 3,300 private contractors' vehicles and over 600 Bus Éireann vehicles.

Negotiations with school bus operators regarding bus contracts are a matter between Bus Éireann and the individual contractors and these negotiations take place prior to the commencement of the new school year. The Deputy will understand that pending the outcome of these negotiations it is too early to say what the impact might be on the overall cost of school transport this year.

My Department is continuing to work closely with Bus Éireann to ensure that school transport services are delivered in a safe and cost effective manner.