Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2015
1212. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding backdated payment of the School Transport Grant for persons (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30757/15]
View answerIn general, children with special educational needs are eligible for school transport if they are attending the nearest recognised mainstream school or unit that is or can be resourced, to meet their special educational needs under Department of Education and Skills' criteria.
An application for school transport for the child referred to by the Deputy was submitted on 24th July 2015 and Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme on behalf of my Department, has advised that transport has been in place for this child since the start of the current school year.
A Special Transport Grant towards the cost of private transport arrangements may be provided at the discretion of the Department in certain situations including where Bus Éireann is not in a position to provide a transport service. Grants are only considered for the school year in which an application for transport is received.
