Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2026
375. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will review the case of a student (details supplied) who has been refused school transport for the 2026-2027 school year; if consideration can be given to providing a concessionary place on an existing service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51435/26]
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.
Where a child is eligible for transport and the application and payment process has been completed on time, they will get a seat on a school bus service, where a service is available.
Where a child is not eligible for school transport, but the application and payment process has been completed on time, they will be considered for any spare seats available after eligible children have been accommodated. These seats are called concessionary seats.
There may be more demand than availability for concessionary seats. In such cases, Bus Éireann will use a selection process to allocate tickets for the spare seats.
Bus Eireann has advised that the pupil mentioned by the Deputy is not eligible as they are attending their 3rd nearest post primary centre. This pupil applied and paid on time however there is no service (including mixed service mentioned in correspondence) from where they reside to this school.
