Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On the cut-off point of 70 years of age, that is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. It is my understanding that Bus Éireann says it keeps it consistently under review. Specifically in terms of the wider appreciation of school transport and its importance, we have been very cognisant of that. Where we had the capacity last year there were no fees being requested. Now the fees have been reduced to €50 for primary and €75 for post-primary for the year's travel with a cap of €125 for the family. Specifically in respect of what Deputy Harkin raised, I want to be clear that in terms of having the fullest data available, the application was 28 April and all data in terms of medical details for tickets or whether people are in a position to pay will not be available to Bus Éireann until Friday, 9 June. I am going to be clear to the Deputy. We have given a commitment that until the review is completed, there will be no removal or downsizing of buses or routes for the 2023-24 school year. What happens afterwards, pending the review, happens after.

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