Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
578. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Education and Youth to ensure a person (details supplied) will be provided with special school bus transport, in view that the pupil was in receipt of transport and was notified that the route will not operate from 19 January 2026 until further notice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15005/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
The purpose of the scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school. 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.
Bus Éireann have confirmed that the service referred to by the Deputy ceased operating 19 January 2026 and Bus Éireann is working to source a new contractor. They have advised that once a new contractor is sourced , the local office will contact the family directly.
Both the Department and Bus Éireann are very conscious of the challenges faced by parents awaiting transport for students with special educational needs. Families of children who are eligible for these services may therefore apply for the Interim Special Transport Grant which is a once off payment, paid retrospectively to families once the School Transport service resumes and is to assist with the cost of private transport arrangements the family had put in place until services are finalised.
School Transport Section of my Department have contacted the family directly offering the Interim Special Transport Grant.
