Bus seating policy forces families on 40-mile school runs

FAMILIES in rural Ireland are facing daily school runs of up to 40 miles because new seating arrangements have reduced space on school buses.

Fine Gael transport spokesperson Olivia Mitchell said the Government’s decision to end the practice of allowing three second-level students share two seats is unacceptable.

“The Government has reached a new low when plans to ensure a seat for every child can only be achieved by getting rid of pupils instead of getting new buses,” she said.