School Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 July 2012

Tuesday, 17 July 2012

Ceisteanna (140)

Michael Lowry

Ceist:

142 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the decision made to refuse subsidised post primary school transport to a student (details supplied) in County Tipperary despite the fact that this school is the closest school of the chosen ethos and beliefs of that student and family; if he will provide information on the cost saving made by refusing subsidised transport in this case; if he will clarify the reason the distance to the school was calculated based on walking route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34561/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Ciarán Cannon)

Under the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 4.8 km from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by my Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language. Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme on behalf of my Department determine eligibility by measuring the shortest traversable route from a child's home to the relevant education centre. Children who are not eligible for school transport may apply for transport on a concessionary basis in accordance with the terms of the scheme. My Department has requested Bus Éireann to submit a report on the application details submitted by the family in question. When this report is received my Department will be in contact the family.