Bus Safety Concern (From Penarth Times)

Bus Safety Concern

VALE children travelling 'three-for-two' on school buses is being put to the top of the agenda by the local Assembly Member.

Speaking during school transport safety week, Health Minister Jane Hutt expressed deep concern about the practice.

She also questioned the provision of safety belts on school buses.

Ms Hutt has been a long-time campaigner on safety issues affecting children travelling to school. These range from the availability of services on difficult routes in the rural areas to the reliability of the service and the provision of suitable bus escorts.

Following discussion with parents this week, she wrote to the Traffic Commission highlighting her concerns.

She is taking the matter up with Assembly Ministers Jane Davidson and Sue Essex, who are currently looking into whether it can do more to improve safety measures.

Ms Hutt told the News: "It is vital we can be sure our children are safe on their journey to school. At present, there are a number of areas of concern and a great deal of inconsistency about the rules.

"Bus operators can face prosecution if they overcrowd public vehicles, but they are still allowed to put three children in a seat meant for two and I am concerned that this can lead to greater risks for children. Some will not be seated safely and it can also mean more pushing and shoving which could distract the driver."

She added: "Many parents and teachers would also like the reassurance of knowing their children can wear seat belts on journeys to school. If schools arrange trips, they have to make sure seat belts are provided, but the same rules do not apply for the journey to and from school.

"Parents need to feel confident their children can use the bus service safely. We need to address what can be done to improve safety for them."

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesman said it shared her concerns and recognised the safety of children must be a major priority, but said current legislation contains inconsistencies.

He said: "Changes in legislation would affect many Welsh local authorities and have wide-ranging financial implications. With this in mind, the council welcomes Ms Hutt's moves to raise all such issues with both the Traffic Commission and the Assembly."