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George Sweeney, Opposition Critic for Government Services and MHA for the
District of Carbonear-Harbour Grace, is calling on government to increase
the frequency and effectiveness of school bus inspections to ensure the
safety of children. "There is sufficient reason for concern about the way
in which school bus inspections are done in this province," says Sweeney.
"Recent comments by the association representing school bus operators in
this province indicate that increased gas prices may cause financial
difficulties for some operators. This may prevent necessary repairs from
being completed.
"Government can’t continue to ignore this situation. Concerns have been
raised from very credible sources and there is a clear need for improvements
to be made. This is not something which can be left unattended by
government."
The Auditor General expressed concern about the high incidence of defects
identified during school bus inspections conducted by the Department of
Government Services. Defects related to brakes, steering, mechanical and
other safety problems. As a result of the inspections in 2002-2003, 1130
defects were identified and 172 school buses (16% ) were taken out of
service.
The Auditor General also noted that these were not surprise inspections
because operators had been given advanced notice of upcoming inspections.
Despite the twice a year inspections at the official inspection stations, a
significant number of serious defects were being identified. The Auditor
General said; "Given the extent of school buses being taken out of service,
it is likely that regardless of MVD’s inspection efforts, there are school
buses on the Province’s highways that do not meet the required safety
standards."
Earlier this year the Liberal MHA called on government to establish a
task force on school bus safety. "I raised a number of concerns earlier this
year and government has refused to act, despite evidence uncovered by the
Auditor General stating that problems exist. Government must act immediately
to address safety concerns before school starts next week."
Responsibility for school bus safety is shared between two government
departments. While the Department of Education is responsible for setting
general policy directions for the Boards, the Department of Government
Services is responsible for administering all legislation respecting
vehicles and driver licensing. The Department of Government Services is
responsible for setting the standards and performing inspections and other
enforcement activities related to school bus safety.
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