On Wednesday, March 5th, Senator Scahill addressed the Seanad, urging Bus Éireann to reassess school bus routes in response to growing populations in areas like Ballymoe and its surrounding townlands. Highlighting inefficiencies and safety concerns, the senator pointed out that two buses currently travel the same route for significant portions of their journey, leaving Ballymoe village and nearby areas unserviced.
Senator Scahill criticised Bus Éireann’s proposed solution, which requires students to meet buses at roadside locations—often in hazardous or exposed spots like quarries. “Parents affected by this have come up with alternative solutions,” he noted, explaining that their plan would prevent buses from duplicating routes and ensure safer collection points.
The senator called for a system where parent associations can submit such proposals and have them reviewed promptly. “I’m asking can we look at solutions whereby parent associations can make cases like this and that they can be considered in a timely manner,” he said.
