Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
576. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on a review of school transport for a child (details supplied) with special educational needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6567/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
An application for special transport arrangements is made by parent(s) through the School Principal and the Special Education Needs Organiser (SENO) for the school. The SENOs are employed by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
An application for School Transport under the scheme for children with Special Educational Needs was received for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. As this pupil was not attending the nearest school resourced to meet his special educational needs it had to be reviewed comprehensively by officials in the School Transport Section of my Department in consultation with the NCSE.
This review has been completed and the pupil referred to by the Deputy has been deemed eligible for school transport. Bus Éireann has been advised and are currently processing the application. Bus Éireann will liaise directly with the family in the coming days when the service is ready to commence.
