Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 June 2026
105. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the funding deficit experienced by a school (details supplied) in the implementation of school transport services; and if she will meet with the school to resolve this issue. [46348/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
There is a facility within the Special Educational Needs Transport Scheme for the appointment of a school transport escort where a child’s care and safety needs while on school transport are such as to require the support of a School Transport Escort.
The Board of Management/ETB are responsible for the employment of the school transport escort. The Department of Education and Youth provides grant funding directly to the school for the employment of the school transport escort and sets the rate of pay.
Following a review of the School Transport Scheme, the Department committed to continuing the comprehensive analysis of matters relating to escort's pay, and the information provided to schools as the employer of the escort.
The work by School Transport Section regarding the employment of school bus escorts has been completed and an information pack has issued to schools. This pack is updated regularly and is also available on the Department’s website.
The school in question has approached the department in relation to supplementary funding required for the employment of additional school bus escorts. Department officials have recently met with the school principal, Board of Management and Patron in this regard and continues to engage with the school on the matter.
