The Minister for Transport Martin Cullen tonight promised a thorough investigation into today's accident in Meath after it emerged that the bus - at the centre of the tragedy - was not fitted with seat belts.
Mr Cullen said: "Obviously, an accident of this nature must and will be investigated independently and fully.
He said he had spoken with the Taoiseach, the Chairman of CIE, Dr John Lynch, senior officials of my department and my colleagues Ministers Mary Hanafin and Noel Dempsey.
Minister for Education Mary Hanafin said tonight it was too early to talk about an investigation.
Ms Hanafin said at the moment our thoughts are with those of the bereaved.
Fine Gael's Olwyn Enright said: "The details surrounding this accident will have to be investigated to the fullest extent, but our immediate concern must be for those who are injured, and our thoughts are with all families touched by this dreadful accident."