Vol. 487 No. 7
262 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, there are to implement a decision to charge for school bus services in areas where a national school was closed; and if he will give a commitment that these charges will not be introduced arising out of the recent report in this regard in view of the commitments given at the time to parents in a school (details supplied) in County Wexford. [5139/98]
Under the existing school transport scheme, free school transport is provided to eligible primary pupils, including those pupils referred to by the Deputy.
The School Transport Review Committee, which was set up by my predecessor in January 1996, undertook a comprehensive study of the school transport scheme. The committee's report was published on 21 January 1998 and has been circulated to various interests.
I should point out that the recommendations contained in the report, including those relating to transport charges, do not necessary reflect Government policy.
I welcome the publication of the report which will afford an opportunity for extensive debate on its contents. I assure the Deputy that I will give serious consideration to the product of this debate before making final decisions on any future changes to the school transport system.
