Numerous school bus operators nationally and from west Cork have contacted me in the past two weeks. They are concerned that Bus Éireann has decided that all school bus services will return to pre-Covid operations and that all extra buses provided during Covid to allow for social distancing of children will no longer be provided. Many of these school bus operators are very worried that if services operate as they did pre-Covid there will be a danger to bus drivers and students. In a week where primary school children are being forced to wear masks in school regardless of what ailments they have, and more draconian measures are being considered in this country, will the Government work with Bus Éireann to ensure that services put in place owing to Covid, and which have operated throughout Covid, remain in place for the next number of months at least?

I thank the Deputy for the question. The most important aspect in regard to education is that the schools remain open. In that regard, it is imperative that infection and prevention control measures remain in place on school transport. My understanding in regard to school transport is that it has reverted to 100% capacity. There are bus escorts in the area of special education, which is under my remit. Full personal protective equipment is provided sanitisation protocols are in place and there is no difficulty in terms of funding. I will bring this matter to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Foley, as it is under her remit.