In June 2005 my Department approved the provision of a full transport service for the pupil referred to in the details supplied from the foster mother's home to the school in question. My Department was subsequently advised that the pupil would require transport in the afternoons only. In October 2005 the foster mother wrote to my Department requesting the provision of a transport service for both the mornings and afternoons. On foot of a report from Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport services on behalf of my Department, a full transport service was approved again for this pupil.
The foster mother has been advised that the appropriate rate of grant will be awarded retrospectively to cover the period when an afternoon service only was provided on receipt of the necessary confirmation of the pupil's attendance from the relevant authorities at the school.