Training to allow officers from the Road Safety Team to cover school crossing patrols will soon be in place to address any shortages.

That was the assertion from Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey following a question in the House of Keys from Douglas North member David Ashford.

Mr Ashford said he had been approached by parents of children at Cronk-y-Berry School who had asked about the long-term absence of a crossing warden in the area.

Mr Malarkey said the age profile of people doing the job - who were often retired - meant shortages could occur from time to time.

He told Keys there was a candidate for the post at Cronk-y-Berry and they were simply waiting to complete the vetting process.

’Sometimes they are moved from school to school but priority is given to schools where the roads are narrow,’ he said.

Mr Ashford asked if there was a bank of relief lollipop men and women that could be tapped into when needed.

Mr Malarkey said that, on a trial basis, staff in the road safety unit were being trained so they could step in at the last minute when necessary.

’We are aware of the absence at Cronk-y-Berry,’ he said.

’But we think the latest measures being taken to address any problems should prove to be of great benefit.’