School Transport Administration

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 September 2014

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

Questions (1386)

Michael McGrath

Question:

1386. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills in respect of the reference to ethos in the school transport scheme, second level, the reason for the use of the term "ethos" in the context of religious denomination; if a community school under the patronage of the local education and training board is deemed to be a Catholic school with an ethos equivalent to a school the patron of which patron is a specific Catholic body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34062/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

Under the terms of the 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.

In relation to school transport provision, ethos relates to religious ethos and is in the context of provision for minority religions.

Community Schools are generally under the joint-trusteeship of the local Education Training Board and a specified religious body or bodies. Under their Deeds of Trust, the Community Schools are required to cater for all pupils in the community regardless of their faith background.