asked the Minister for Education when she proposes to introduce the voucher system for the payment of school transport fees; and if she will explain the proposed operation of the scheme.
Written Answers. - School Transport Fees.
443.
The pre-paid voucher scheme to which the Deputy refers in her question has been in operation since mid-October. Under this scheme parents who are liable for school transport charges may purchase vouchers in units of £5 from designated CIE offices. The vouchers may be used towards the payment of the charges when they fall due.
The total charges must be paid in advance by the relevant closing date. In the case of the Christmas to Easter 1984 school term, the closing date for receipt of the charges is 8 December 1983.
Details of the voucher scheme have been issued to all post-primary schools and to the parents of post-primary pupils who are at present availing themselves of school transport. Parents/legal guardians who are the holders of medical cards and whose children are eligible for school transport continue to be exempt from the charges.