School Transport Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 June 2014

Tuesday, 17 June 2014

Questions (273)

Martin Heydon

Question:

273. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Education and Skills if there are any financial supports to assist struggling families to cover the cost of school transport where they have medical cards but are required to pay school transport charges as the school their children are attending is not the closest to them and where they already have older siblings attending the same school not requiring a payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26102/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

The purpose of my Department's School Transport Schemes is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school. 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 or education centre. Children who are not eligible for school transport may apply for transport on a concessionary basis only subject to a number of terms and conditions including the payment of the annual charge. This charge, which may be paid in two instalments in July and December, is a contribution towards the overall cost and does not reflect the true cost of providing these services. Only children who are eligible for school transport and who hold valid medical cards (GMS Scheme) are exempt from paying the annual charge.