Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2026
635. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Youth if an issue with school transport can be resolved for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10284/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
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.
Families are required to register their details on the Bus Éireann Family Portal to have their eligibility for transport assessed and to make applications under the scheme: www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport/.
The Portal will open for applications for the 2026/27 school year shortly.
Following the closing date for payment or entering medical card details, the portal will close. This will give Bus Éireann time to assess all applications and plan for routes and services for the 2026/27 school year. Routes may be altered or extended depending on the number and location of children who will be availing of school transport for the following school year.
Where a child is eligible for transport and the application and payment process is completed on time, they will get a seat on a school bus service, where a service is available.
Where a child is not eligible for school transport, but the application and payment process is completed for them on time, they will be considered for any spare seats available after eligible children have been accommodated. These seats are called concessionary seats.
There may be more demand than availability for concessionary seats. In such cases, Bus Éireann will use a selection process to allocate tickets for the spare seats.
In relation to the specific issue raised, Bus Éireann is looking into the matter in question and will revert to School Transport Section shortly. When this information is received and assessed within School Transport Section, a further update will be provided at that time.
