Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

More than 130,000 applications or registrations were received by 29 July and we have issued 127,800 tickets. That process is ongoing. The 127,800 tickets represent a 23% increase on previous years, including a 33% increase in concessionary tickets.

Regarding the late application process, it is important for families to note that the application deadline was 29 April and that the deadline to confirm registration was 29 July. Any application completed after this date was a "late application" and, therefore, many school transport services were already operating at full capacity. While a number of late applications have been received, eligibility can only be determined at the time of assessment. These applications will only be assessed after all "on time" applications have been processed and there can be no guarantee of places for late applicants.

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