Bitter row over Mayo school bus stop/pick-up change escalates

Mayo TD and Minister of State, Alan Dillon, has expressed serious concerns following communication from Bus Éireann to parents of students attending Davitt College and St. Joseph’s Convent Secondary School in Castlebar, suggesting potential changes to the existing school transport service.

Minister Dillon has contacted the School Transport Division in Ballina seeking urgent clarification on an email issued to parents, which indicated that pick-up and drop-off locations may be moved to Stephen Garvey Way, across from Mr. Price.

This planned relocation has not only caused confusion but has led to significant anxiety among students and their families who depend on this vital service.

“This matter has understandably caused huge concern in the community,” said Minister Dillon.

“Parents and students deserve clarity, especially when any potential change affects their daily routines and safety.”

Minister Dillon also noted the lack of consultation with school management, despite the impact such changes would have on school operations.

“It is even more concerning that no formal decision was communicated with school leadership.

"I have engaged directly with Conor O’Reilly on this issue and can confirm that both schools were not involved in any formal discussions or planning around the proposed change.”

The minister has now contacted Bus Éireann directly, requesting a detailed explanation and accurate information regarding the current situation and any proposed changes.

“I am committed to ensuring that parents, students, and school staff are kept fully informed and that any decision regarding school transport is made with their input, safety, and convenience at the forefront,” he concluded.

Minister Dillon will continue to monitor the situation closely and is seeking a prompt resolution in consultation with all relevant stakeholders.

A parent has penned the following letter to Bus Eireann about the matter.

It stated: "Can you please advise on the logic behind this decision?

"It seems outrageous to me that the current system would change so much, the kids are currently dropped in a carpark on school grounds with a pathway to the girls school.

"The girls do get a raw deal here in fairness and I agree that this should be addressed but moving both groups to a public bus stop on the other side of the town seems insane!

"The kids would have a good 20-25 minute walk to both Davitt College or St Joseph's, with heavy bags and more often than not in the rain.

"Given also that the bus would have to pass by the current schools stops in order to get to the new prospective stop this seems unbelievable!

"While some parents have received a reply from yourselves that the decision and the request for the change has come from the schools, the schools have in fact confirmed that they knew nothing of this until parents started calling them since the first email went out and the management of Davitt College have confirmed they are completely opposed to this decision on the grounds of safety if nothing else.

"They have emailed all parents to this effect, so I ask who is making this decision? Is it Bus Eireann or the contractors?"