School Transport Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2015

Wednesday, 27 May 2015

Questions (182)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

182. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding school transport in respect of children (details supplied) in County Meath; the options available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21053/15]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

In general, under the terms of my Department's Primary School Transport Scheme, children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school.

Bus Éireann has advised that the children in question are not eligible for school transport as they are not attending their nearest Gaelscoil.

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.

The terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme are applied equitably on a national basis.