asked the Minister for Education why his Department have refused to issue tickets to two children aged five and six years (details supplied) in County Laois, who travel four miles to Portarlington school and who should qualify for tickets on the same basis as other families who live further from the school and have this facility.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - School Transport.
19.
As promised in reply to Deputy Oliver J. Flanagan's question about this matter, which was answered on 23rd January, this case has been fully investigated. Having considered the inspector's report in the matter, I have decided to allow the children in question free transport to the national schools in Portarlington.
I should like to thank the Minister for this satisfactory change of mind as a result of my question.
Mr. R. Burke
In order that the record be absolutely complete, I must point out that representations were received also from the Deputy's colleague, Deputy Connolly.
The unfortunate parents had to draw national attention to it in the public Press. It was disgraceful.