Vol. 572 No. 3
270 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will waive or reduce the amount due for the cost of re-routing a school bus (details supplied) in view of the fact that the other three families who use the service and a person (details supplied) do not have the financial means to cover the charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22877/03]
The family to whom the Deputy refers lives 0.5 miles from the route of service to the school concerned and is considered to have a reasonable level of service in the context of the general operation of the school transport scheme. There is a facility available under the scheme whereby parents may request and pay for an extension of service, provided there is no inconvenience to other eligible pupils. My Department is not prepared to fund the additional cost of extending a bus service where it is considered that a reasonable service already exists on the route.
