Claire Kerrane
Ceist:107. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to increase capacity on school transport to meet demand/need; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27850/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 23 April 2026
Ceisteanna (107)
Freagraí scríofa
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
The scheme has expanded significantly over the past six years. In that time, the numbers of children and young people using the service have grown from under 120,000 pupils in 2018 to over 181,000 pupils in 2025, which equates to an increase of close to 50%.
The scheme is demand-led based on the number of eligible children who apply and pay on time. 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:
The Portal for the next school year is now open for mainstream applications and payments. The closing date for payments or entering medical card details is Friday 08 May 2026. Applications or payments/medical card details received after this date will be considered late.
After the closing date, the portal will close. This will give Bus Éireann time to assess all applications and plan for routes and services for the next school year. Routes may be altered or extended depending on the number and location of children who will be availing of school transport for that year.