Concern over planned move of Mayo schools' bus drop-off
Concerns are being raised by parents of students attending Davitt College and St. Joseph's Secondary School in Castlebar over a decision to move the bus drop-off point.
A decision has been reached to switch the stop from Davitt College to the public bus stop at Stephen Garvey Way, leaving students with a long walk to and from their classes.
The new arrangement is expected to come into place in September.
Parents believe the decision is not in the best interest of health and safety and want it changed, The Connaught Telegraph has learned.
An email circulated to parents by Bus Eireann's school transport team outlined: "We wish to make you aware that there may be changes to the morning and evening drop-off and pick-up location for students attending Davitt College and St. Joseph’s Post Primary School from Autumn 2025.
"The school's management teams are discussing the possibility of changing the current pick-up/drop-off point at Davitt College which may lead to an alternative location at Stephen Garvey Way.
"We will keep you informed when we have further information."
A concerned parent stated: "Surely a school bus needs to drop children to their school and not a place 20 minutes away."
It is understood parents have been told the decision was taken due to insurance reasons.
But many believe it will lead to significant safety issues in and around the town as a result of a large number of buses converging on Stephen Garvey Way around the same time every morning and evening.
Parents, who have already paid next year's school transport costs, are also disappointed to be informed about the matter just days before the summer holidays without any consultation.
A number of local elected representatives have been contacted in relation to the matter.
Councillor Harry Barrett has already flagged concerns over the dangers posed by a high number of buses stopping at Stephen Garvey Way on a daily basis and this latest development will compound the situation further.