Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2012
425. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will provide details of the grants available for school transport when students are eligible as they reside more than 4.8 km from their nearest education centre as determined by his Department and where there is no school transport service provided by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38344/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for transport where they reside not less than 4.8 kms from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language. A minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.
An eligible child for whom no transport service is available may, following an application for transport within prescribed time limits, receive a Remote Area Grant towards the cost of private transport arrangements. This grant is also payable for eligible children who may have to travel 3.2 kms or more to or from a designated pick up/set down point. This grant is payable annually at a fixed daily rate, to each eligible family, regardless of the number of children from the same family, travelling to a particular school. The grant amount, which is distance related, ranges from some €200 to €850 per annum.
