Government is to give priority to bus routes servicing schools next week as the Department of Public Transportation continues efforts to meet demand.

Buses have been cancelled on a regular basis in recent months due to problems with an ageing fleet.

A Government spokesman said: “While the emphasis will be on accommodating primary and middle school routes, the regular runs will also be available to senior school students.

“Unfortunately, dedicated school buses cannot be offered at this time.

“Circumstances will improve as new buses arrive, starting in January with others to follow, and as existing buses in the fleet are overhauled.

“Bus users are encouraged to bookmark the bus scheduling pages on the government portal, or subscribe to receive bus cancellation notifications by e-mail.”

The spokesman added that a request for proposal to bring in new buses is being drafted and reviewed.

He said: “This is a longer term project that will be undertaken as budget allows.”