Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 May 2026
324. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will assist in addressing a school transport booking issue for the 2026-27 academic year (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40880/26]
View answerThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
Under the current terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school, and at post primary level where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre as determined by the department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
Bus Éireann has advised that the family referred to by the Deputy have made duplicate applications for these pupils. Bus Éireann have checked both applications and this family have not made payment on either account. They further advise that there were no reported issues with the application system at the time.
The Bus Éireann portal is temporarily closed and will reopen on 01 July 2026. Applications or payments/medical card details entered after the portal reopens will be considered late and a service may not be available. Additionally, late applications cannot be considered for a Remote Area Grant for the 2026/27 school year.
