Vol. 486 No. 1
854 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science whether newspaper reports of a recommendation to him that he should introduce school transport fees are correct; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1427/98]
916 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to introduce charges for school transport whereby all parents, including medical card holders, will have to pay for the service. [1849/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 854 and 916 together.
The school transport review committee was set up by my predecessor in January 1996. The committee undertook a comprehensive study of the entire school transport system.
The committee's report was received by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy O'Dea, in September 1997 and is currently being examined in the Department. The report was published on 21 January 1998 and is being circulated to various interests.
I should point out that the recommendations contained in the report, including those concerning the introduction of new fees and increasing current transport charges, do not necessarily reflect Government policy.
I welcome the publication of the report which will afford an opportunity for extensive debate on its contents. I will give serious consideration and reflect on the product of this debate before making final decisions on any future changes to the school transport system.
