Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
539. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on the process for contractors receiving payment from Bus Éireann and the practice of withholding payments from contractors, citing alleged delays or administrative failures on the part of schools for school transport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34007/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
The scheme is operated using a mix of Bus Éireann owned vehicles and drivers, and private contractors who operate the scheme.
As part of the operation of the scheme, Bus Éireann manages the procurement tender process and contract management arrangements to include services provided by private contractors under the School Transport Scheme.
Bus Éireann advise, as part of the payment process, school authorities are required to sign the relevant school transport contractors' invoice on a periodic basis. This signed invoice is submitted by school transport contractors to the relevant Local Office for payment. Payment is processed in line the terms and conditions as set out in the contractor's Bus Éireann school transport contract.
If the Deputy has a query regarding a specific case, officials in the School Transport Section in my Department would be happy to follow up with Bus Éireann if he can provide the details.
