Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
464. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Youth if it is proposed to allow persons aged 70 and over, subject to appropriate medical checks, to undertake school transport work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [73610/25]
View answerThe School Transport Scheme is a substantial national operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
The retirement age for school bus drivers has been set by Bus Éireann at 70 years of age, which also applies to all Bus Éireann road passenger services.
The policy and criteria also apply to drivers nominated by private operators who operate services as part of the School Transport Scheme, provided they hold the requisite license and satisfy an annual medical examination until they retire at age 70.
Under the new Programme for Government, a commitment has been made to "Carry out an independent assessment on the feasibility of removing the exclusion of drivers aged over 70 from the School Transport Scheme".
There is ongoing engagement between the Department and Bus Éireann to advance this commitment as quickly as possible.
