Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
387. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Education and Youth whether her Department is considering any solutions to help reduce the impact of driver and vehicle changes on sanctioned school transport routes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32406/26]
View answerBus Éireann operates the school transport scheme on behalf of the Department of Education & Youth. It is made up of the mainstream scheme at Primary and Post Primary level, as well as the scheme for pupils with Special Educational Needs.
It is a significant operation providing transport for over 181,000 pupils to and from school daily across over 11,000 routes. This includes the provision of transport for over 24,000 pupils with additional needs.
The scheme is operated using a mix of Bus Éireann owned vehicles and directly recruited drivers, and private contractors who recruit their own drivers to operate the scheme.
Bus Éireann has advised that there were operational challenges with some services following the commencement of the 2025/26 school year. A re-organisation of some services took place and following a number of procurement competitions, vehicles and drivers were secured and transport services put in place.
Bus Éireann awards contracts of five year and one year duration, however on occasion there may be a requirement for a change of driver due to illness, absence or a change in contractor providing the service.
Where there may be disruption to service at short notice, Bus Éireann provides communication directly to families impacted.
