Bus Éireann is not commenting on allegations that capacity on school buses for secondary school students will be reduced by 50 per cent for the new school year.
Radio Kerry News understands that this reduction was discussed during a conference call involving Bus Éireann.
Bus Éireann wouldn't respond to the allegation that capacity on school buses for second level students will be reduced by 50 per cent.
But in its statement to Radio Kerry, it says, following considerations of the most recent recommendations from the National Public Health Emergency Team, the Government has decided that arrangements made for the primary school transport scheme will proceed as planned and these services will operate fully and as normal with additional measures and hygiene requirements in place.
However, regarding transport for post-primary students, Bus Éireann says there'll be a rolling implementation of measures to providing physical distancing as required.
It says it's been working closely with the Department of Education to ensure the safe operation of school transport with measures including pre-assigned seating - a 'bus buddy' - to ensure that children are seated beside siblings or classmates;additional hygiene and cleaning measures on buses, and the wearing of face coverings for children over the age of 13, with exceptions for some teenagers who have medical or special educational needs.
