Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 1

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

353 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if appropriate transport arrangements will be made in order that a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who suffers from cerebral palsy can attend school in St. Anne's, Roscrea, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26397/98]

My Department endeavours to provide school transport for all children attending special schools and classes on either scheduled or special services. However, in some cases this is not feasible due to particular circumstances such as excessive cost, too long a distance, or the inability of a child to avail of the service because of the nature of the disability. In such cases, my Department offers a grant to the parents or guardians of the pupil concerned to help defray the cost of private transport arrangements. The amount of grant payable in such cases depends on the distance involved and the level of school attendance by the pupil.

I understand that it has not been possible to date to facilitate the child in question on any of the existing transport services operating in the general area in question. I also understand that the child's parents have asked my Department to review its decision to offer a grant payment towards a private transport arrangement, as they are unable to bring the child to and from school themselves. My Department is currently investigating whether any alternative transport arrangements can be put in place to facilitate the pupil in question.

Top
Share