The School Transport Scheme which is operated by Bus Éireann on behalf of Department of Education and Skills (DoES) has been the subject of much discussion regarding the introduction of a new policy.
As part of of the decision, Bus Éireann have announced that they will stand down school transport services for all or part of a given day in a specific area should a Status Red weather alert be issued.
In the interest of pupil safety, the policy has been implemented in line with advice issued by State bodies regarding rare weather warnings.
Highlighting the severity of a Status Red Weather Warning, Met Éireann have explained the importance of taking the proper precautions in the case of such an eventuality.
Advising individuals to “take action to protect themselves and/or their properties”, Met Eireann went on to elaborate on the specifics involved.
“This could be by moving their families out of the danger zone temporarily; by staying indoors; or by other specific actions aimed at mitigating the effects of the weather conditions.”
With meteorological conditions affecting the operation of school transport very differently to the way in which they affect schools themselves – which are fixed buildings – it has been asserted that the transport of pupils in such conditions could pose a risk to their safety.
Outlining the specifics of the policy, Bus Éireann explained that should a Status Red warning be issued in the morning, but is downgraded at or before noon, services – which do not operate in the morning - will operate as normal at school closing time.
If a Status Red warning is not downgraded until afternoon or later in the evening they will endeavour, where possible, and with the assistance of emergency services if necessary, to bring school children home.
The policy has been communicated to school management bodies as well as the parents of pupils who avail of these services via email or letter.
Schools and media will be kept informed of developments as they take place.
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