Duncan Smith
Question:423. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Youth the known number of bus escorts in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32802/26]
View answerWednesday, 6 May 2026
Questions (423)
Written answers
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
There is a facility within the Special Educational Needs Transport Scheme for the appointment of a school transport escort where a child’s care and safety needs while on school transport are such as to require the support of a School Transport Escort.
The Board of Management/ETB are responsible for the employment of the school transport escort. The Department of Education and Youth provides grant funding directly to the school for the employment of the school transport escort and sets the rate of pay.
It is recognised that school bus escorts play a vital role in supporting children with special educational needs in their journey to and from school.
There are over 5,300 people employed as school bus escorts in the 2025/26 school year.