Vol. 559 No. 5
190 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 202 of 22 October 2002, if he will accept a reduced payment in relation to the school transport in view of the financial difficulties these persons are experiencing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26314/02]
Primary school transport routes are planned so that no eligible child will have more than 1.5 miles to travel to a pick-up point. Pupils living off the main route of service are generally expected to make their own way or be brought to convenient pick-up points along the main route. The family in question resides 0.6 miles from the route of service, which is considered a reasonable and adequate level of service. There is provision for parents to pay for extensions of bus services where feasible. It is not within my Department's remit to offer extensions at a reduced rate, where the service is within guidelines.
