asked the Minister for Education if her attention has been drawn to the cessation of school transport facilities to children attending St. John's national school, Tower Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22; if her attention has further been drawn to the hardship caused to children and the concern of the parents in this matter; if she will review the situation with a view to restoration of the service; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cessation of School Transport Facilities.
72.
As my Department must ensure that resources are utilised in the most efficient and economic manner, school transport services are subject to regular review and rationalisation. Whenever possible, public scheduled services are utilised. Following routine reorganisation of transport routes and services in the locality provision has been made for the five eligible pupils affected. This provision still allows students concerned free transport on the scheduled service operating between Rathcoole and Clondalkin.
I understand that the school principal, a member of the school's board of management, was notified of the change in arrangements by Bus Éireann, the Department's agent in the operation of the scheme, on a number of occasions prior to the end of the Christmas school term, 1988.