A parent has described the situation as a ‘disgrace’
SCHOOL PUPILS in Lisbellaw are being left in the lurch by buses that are ‘full up’ on the morning commute to school.
Translink have said that they are working on the issues. Their spokesman added that it ‘always takes a few weeks for school services to settle down’.
But, a parent who has two boys attempting to use the service since the school term began last week, has described the situation as a ‘disgrace’.
Several buses run in time for getting Lisbellaw-based pupils into Enniskillen in time for school in the morning, but Jennifer Harte is among parents and carers who have had to drive children into school themselves when the buses have been full.
Jennifer has two sons attending school in Enniskillen and recounted a similar problem last year.
“Tuesday last week was OK, but on Wednesday they were left standing. There are buses that run from 7.50 to 8.20,” she explained, “There are five or six buses that go through – it’s like a lottery if you get a seat or not. They come through saying, ‘bus full’.
“It was probably around October time when they got things fixed last year.”
And, Jennifer was especially concerned for younger pupils, those who might be starting secondary or grammar school in the town, and who might be using buses like these for the first time.
“It’s scary for them. Could you imagine if you’re looking at these buses and they’re all fun – because you might have a link bus to get in Enniskillen? If they’re late for that bus, I don’t know what happens.”
Jennifer said that she met with a bus inspector on Monday who assessed the issues in Lisbellaw. She said her sons and other students are ‘annoyed they’re going through this again this year’.
“An extra bus, even just from Lisbellaw into town would help. And, if parents have work they couldn’t do it – if the parents have work there’s no way they can get them to school.”
A Translink spokesman said that they are monitoring the service.
“At the start of the school term, it always takes a few weeks for school services to settle down.
“During this time, we monitor our services continually and adjust the capacity where necessary to ensure there is sufficient school bus service provision.
“We would like to thank passengers, parents and schools for their patience during this adjustment period.”
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