Shadow transport minister Lawrence Scott has branded ongoing bus cancellations as “unacceptable” and causing “havoc” to students travelling from school.

The Department of Public Transportation announced a raft of 30 cancelled buses for yesterday alone — many of which are around the time students are travelling home from school.

It followed similar cancellations announced on Monday owing to mechanical problems and out of service vehicles, according to the DPT.

Progressive Labour Party MP Mr Scott said in a statement: “The fact that, on an almost daily basis, the One Bermuda Alliance Government is sending out notices of numerous bus cancellations is unacceptable and should not be tolerated by the public whose taxes go towards purchase and maintenance of the fleet. Each day, we hear of these bus cancellations which wreak havoc for students, workers, and seniors alike. There are even reports of buses breaking down while in transit, and of buses not showing up to collect students from school.”

Mr Scott said yesterday’s listing of cancelled buses affects students from Warwick Academy, Purvis Primary, and TN Tatem and numerous buses from CedarBridge Academy.

He continued: “How are parents supposed to ensure their children get to their respective destinations?”

The Government said in a statement yesterday evening: “The DPT would like to advise the public that as a result of a huge spike in vehicles coming out of service for various reasons including accidents, tyre changes and small electrical repairs the Department of Public Transportation is currently experiencing some delays and cancellations of bus runs.

“Currently, DPT technicians are carrying out targeted repairs that will have the greatest impact on returning vehicles to service and a manufacturer technician will be arriving to assist with specialised repairs.

“We apologise for the inconvenience this causes and we sincerely appreciate the public’s patience and understanding at this time.

“The DPT advises passengers to expect some delays and catch the first bus that comes along that will get them to their destination and not wait for a preferred route or bus operator, as some passengers have been known to do.”

However, Mr Scott reminded the public that last March people were told that cancellations were connected to budget cuts.

“What is it about now? Is it maintenance? Why haven’t the issues with maintenance and repairs on buses been addressed?” he said.

“In addition to the security concerns and the lack of movement on installing cameras, when will the minister and the OBA come clean about the true state of the fleet?

“The America’s Cup series races next month will put additional stress on the fleet. This doesn’t account for the regular commuter needs and the cruise passengers that will be at Dockyard during October.”

“Is the minister [Shawn Crockwell] confident we won’t be embarrassed with cancellations, delays, roach infestations and breakdowns? If issues aren’t addressed, what will be the state of the fleet next month during a very critical period?”