Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 September 2012
143. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills the financial assistance available for parents towards the cost of transport when they are living in excess of five kilometres from the nearest primary school or from the nearest school transport pick up point; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40237/12]
View answerUnder the terms of my Department's Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 3.2 km from and are attending their nearest national school as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
A minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.
An eligible child for whom no transport service is available may, following an application for transport within prescribed time limits, receive a Remote Area Grant towards the cost of private transport arrangements. This grant is also payable for eligible children who may have to travel 3.2 km or more to or from a designated pick up/set down point.
This grant is payable annually at a fixed daily rate, to each eligible family, regardless of the number of children from the same family, travelling to a particular school. The grant amount, which is distance related, ranges from some €200 to €850 per annum.
