I refer to the item entitled Parents Demand Safer School Buses (May 8).

In terms of EU and national legislation, all M2 motor vehicles (like minibuses) manufactured on or after January 1, 1998 and all M3 motor vehicles (such as coaches), except those intended to carry standing passengers, must be equipped with seat belts and these must be used. M2 vehicles that were manufactured before January 1, 1998 are not required to be retrofitted with seat belts when carrying schoolchildren because these do not have approved anchorage points and, therefore, may be considered as a safety hazard.

Since Transport Malta does not distinguish between school transport and other passenger transport, it is up to the contracting entities, like the Education Division (in the case of government schools) and other entities (Church and private schools), to impose any conditions they deem fit, like a maximum age or the imposition of use of seat belts, or persons accompanying the drivers and children on board. Transport Malta remains available to assist and guide these entities when and if requested.

All drivers of vans are issued with a driver permit by Transport Malta, based on good conduct and professional competence, and are fined and awarded penalty points if found breaching the regulations. The accumulation of penalty points may lead to the suspension or revocation of their permit. Such requirements are found in the Passenger Transport Services Regulations.

Contrary to what is stated in the article, the drivers are in fact vetted by Transport Malta.