Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2015
766. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding free school transport for a child (details supplied) in County Leitrim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28443/15]
View answerUnder the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for school transport where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by my Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
The child in question is not attending her nearest school and is therefore not eligible for school transport. Children who are not eligible for school transport, may apply for transport on a concessionary basis only which is subject to a number of conditions including the availability of spare seats on an existing service and payment of the annual charge.
Only children who are eligible for school transport and who hold a valid Medical Card (GMS Scheme) are exempt from paying the annual charge.
The terms of the scheme are applied equitably on a national basis.
