Mr. Richard Dolan:

I acknowledge that it did not result in the rules of the scheme been changed.

On planning for special needs children and journey times, the special needs scheme is an individual service. We are very conscious of this and that what works for one child may not work for the next. On journey times and so on, if we become aware of excessive journey times, we work with the NCSE and its special needs adviser to ensure a service is within guidelines and suitable for the child. If there is a specific case or detail about which the Deputy is concerned, he can come back to us and we will look into it.

On the appeals process, I acknowledge the point about the number of appeals not granted. However, as part of the appeals process, we write to parents and ask if there is any new information between the point of application, which could have been some weeks previously and the point of the decision, particularly in the case of special needs children. If parents do have new information, we take it on board and the appeals board may refer the case back to us on that basis. We will consider it as a different application if new information has come in. Although the appeals board may not allow the appeal, it is referred back to us because there is new information and we might want to make a different decision. The appeals board plays a very valuable role in the area of school transport.

I think I have addressed most of the issues raised. Mr. Kent or Ms Flynn may wish to contribute. I apologise if I have missed anything.