Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 October 2012
249. Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a bus pass in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44380/12]
View answerUnder the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme, children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 4.8 kms from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language. Eligibility for school transport is not determined by way of subject choice.
Children who are not eligible for school transport, under the terms of the scheme, may apply to Bus Éireann for transport on a concessionary basis provided there are spare seats available on the service, and the appropriate annual charge is paid. Only eligible children who hold valid medical cards (GMS Scheme) are exempt from paying the annual charge.
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.
