Buses to resume service on Wednesday.
The Quebec School Bus Association (QSBA) has raised concerns about the government's decision to offer both thermal and electric bus options, following the removal of approximately 1,200 Lion Electric school buses from service after a fire incident on September 9.
The incident, which involved six children and the driver, fortunately resulted in no injuries. However, the QSBA's complaints do not mention any new discussions or actions regarding this incident.
The QSBA has accused Quebec of reducing its financial aid for electric buses from $12,900 per bus to $5,000 in June 2024. This reduction, according to the QSBA, represents a loss of $12 million per year for operators due to the higher operating costs of electric buses compared to thermal vehicles.
In response to the QSBA's request for a meeting with Education Minister Sonia LeBel, the minister's office stated that meeting requests will be handled according to government priorities. The QSBA has also requested that the affected buses not be immediately put back on the road, with additional inspection procedures and corrections to be carried out, following Lion Electric's recommendation.
The minister's office concluded that the choice to offer both thermal and electric bus options is a reasonable, responsible, and balanced choice. Operators now have the choice to buy either thermal or electric buses, according to the minister's office. The minister's office also mentioned that operators benefit from a grant for the entire lifespan of the electric vehicle.
Chantale Dugas, president and CEO of the QSBA, criticized the government for an "ill-planned, even irresponsible" electric turnaround in school transportation. Dugas requested a "quick" meeting with Education Minister Sonia LeBel. The event was filmed by several witnesses and shared on social media.
The minister's office stated that private companies may seek more government support, but public funds are not unlimited. The minister's criticism in connection with school bus operators, specifically the Quebec School Bus Association, is Bernard Drainville, the Education Minister of Quebec.
Despite the QSBA's concerns, a full return to normal service is expected by Friday at the latest. Chantale Dugas stated that operators are working to complete necessary verifications and corrections to ensure a safe and swift return of buses. The QSBA estimates that about 75% of Lion buses could resume service as early as this Wednesday.
As the situation continues to unfold, both the QSBA and the government are working towards ensuring the safety and efficiency of school transportation in Quebec.
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