Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2010
330 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if the charge for the use of the school bus will be applied for a portion of the year should the student begin use of the service during the school term rather than charging the full cost regardless of when the student commences using the service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2637/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraA new annual school transport charge, which replaced the term charges, was introduced for the 2009/10 school. Provision was made for parents to spread the charge over two payments in July and December. This new method of payment assists Bus Éireann in planning an efficient and cost-effective school transport service well in advance of a school year based on the level of demand for seats. It also provides comfort to parents in the knowledge that on payment of the charge, a seat is guaranteed for the school year in question. I appreciate the Deputy's concerns in this matter. In that regard, my Department, in conjunction with Bus Éireann, is prepared to review aspects of the current arrangements in the light of experiences this year.
