Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I accept that. For example, as regards the nearest school, the Deputy will appreciate that I introduced a temporary alleviation measure this year and last year, which means students who meet the criteria are now eligible for free transport to what might not be their nearest school. It can also be their next nearest school. There is an element of choice to facilitate them.

The review is looking at all aspects, including distance, eligibility and all the criteria. It is an extraordinarily enormous body of work because there has been phenomenal engagement not only from parents, students and those using school transport, but probably more importantly, from those who do not have access to it. The providers have also engaged in the consultation process. We are trying to complete it as soon as we can. The demand for school transport has increased because of children coming from other countries, especially the huge number of children who have come from Ukraine. A significant number of Ukrainian children are being catered for. A body of work remains to be completed but it is close to completion and will be expedited. I hear the points raised by the Deputy. They are part of the review and many of the reasons she listed are the catalysts for the review in the first place. I know the value of school transport as I come from a rural constituency.

I know the value to working parents making plans as to their availability and how they can manage getting their children to school. I understand the importance of getting it right to the best of our ability. I also know that there will be a very strong money message with it and the Deputy has referenced the cost. That will be another debate.