Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Transport.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

310 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the enormous difficulties faced by families with special needs children who are unable to get transport for such children to appropriate schools; and the plans , if any, he has to review the policy of providing transport for special needs pupils in view of the fact inadequacies in the system are causing hardship in north County Dublin. [13300/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

I am aware that from time to time difficulties can be experienced with the introduction of transport services for pupils with special needs. However, I would like to assure the Deputy that, under present arrangements, every effort is made by my Department to provide suitable transport for all pupils attending special schools and special classes at primary level. If the Deputy has concerns about a particular service or area and if he would like to provide the relevant information to my Department, I will arrange to have the matter investigated.

In the event that it is not possible to provide a special service, a transport grant, towards the cost of private transport arrangements is paid to the parents-guardian. The rate of grant payable depends on the mileage involved and the amount paid is subject to school attendance.

In 1997, my Department secured funding for payment of enhanced grants, in individual exceptional cases. Under this provision, a family may appeal the level of transport grant and where appeals, which are based on family circumstances, are found to be genuine, special payments of up to 50p per mile can be sanctioned.

The provision of special transport services is reviewed annually. It is my intention to continue to keep such special supports under regular review and to address, where possible any inadequacies that may be experienced with the system.