Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
450. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will waive the nearest school rule for the upcoming academic year for students attending schools in a catchment area (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45108/26]
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 of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits and subject to available resources.
The closing date for applications and payments or entering medical card details was Friday 08 May 2026. Applications or payments/medical card details received after this date will be considered late.
The Bus Éireann family portal has now closed to allow Bus Éireann time to plan for the new school year. The portal will reopen on 1st July, but any applications, payments or medical card details entered after that point will be deemed as late, and families will not be guaranteed a seat on a school transport service.
Bus Éireann are currently assessing all applications and planning routes and services for the 2026/27 school year.
The Single Online Application for Schools, introduced by the Planning and Building Unit, does not provide for any changes to existing enrolment patterns. It enables parents to submit a single application to multiple schools of their choice, in place of submitting individual applications to each school.
In this context, Bus Éireann will assess all applications within these areas in accordance with the terms of the current School Transport Schemes.
Once routes have been finalised, Bus Éireann will assign tickets for each vehicle. Families who are unsuccessful in obtaining a seat will be notified via email and a refund will issue.
