Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 2

Written Answers. - School Transport.

John Perry

Question:

224 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 359 of 5 November 2002, if he will instruct an official from his Department to meet with a person (details supplied) in relation to school transport for children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21858/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

In order to be eligible for school transport, primary school children must live at least two miles from and be attending, their nearest national school or school of amalgamation. As a rule primary school transport routes are planned so that, as far as possible, no eligible child will have more than 1.5 miles to travel to a pick-up point.

The pupil referred to by the Deputy requested a home pick up on medical grounds. My Department's medical adviser has examined the medical evidence supplied, and has advised that the pupil concerned does not qualify for a home pick up on medical grounds.

The pupil resides 0.6 miles from the existing route of service. As this is considered to be a reasonable and adequate level of service in the context of the general operation of the scheme, and, as re-routing the service would inconvenience eleven other children, it is regretted that the present arrangement is the most that can be offered.

If the family wish to meet with an official of my Department, they may contact school transport section, Tullamore, at 0506-24352 to make the necessary arrangements.