School Transport Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 July 2016

Thursday, 21 July 2016

Questions (183)

Anne Rabbitte

Question:

183. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) has had its bus service completely cut for 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24306/16]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills

Under the terms of my Department's Primary School Transport Scheme a minimum number of ten eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the retention of a school transport service, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.

Bus Éireann has advised that the number of applicants for school transport for the 2016/17 school year, to the school in question, has fallen below this minimum number and as a result the service will not operate for this school year.

In general, families of eligible children will be paid the Remote Area Grant towards the cost of making private transport arrangements.

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