School Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 July 2012

Tuesday, 17 July 2012

Questions (143)

Michael Lowry

Question:

145 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the decision to refuse subsidised post-primary school transport to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary despite the fact that this school is the chosen school of that family; if he will review the decision regarding the minimal difference in distance of two schools, the fact that elder family members are already attending the students chosen school and the fact that the pick-up point for the eligible school is 4km from the family home; if he will provide information on the cost saving made by refusing subsidised transport in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34587/12]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Ciarán Cannon)

Under the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 4.8 km from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by my Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.

Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme on behalf of my Department, determine eligibility by measuring the shortest traversable route from a child's home to the relevant education centre.

Children who are not eligible for school transport may apply for transport on a concessionary basis in accordance with the terms of the scheme.

While it is the prerogative of parents to send their children to the school of their choice, eligibility for school transport is to the nearest school, having regard for ethos and language.