Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As leaves turn yellow and Hallowe'en decorations begin to pop up, a chill fills the air. However, it is not just the cold many families grapple with. It is the cold reality of facing another morning struggling to get their children to school. The school transport scheme in our communities, including in Dublin Mid-West, has become a challenge for many families. We are still awaiting the publication of the review of the scheme. This review was initiated in February 2021. By June of that year only an interim report was brought to light.

We are seeing an increasing need for concessionary tickets, particularly for students attending schools such as Scoil Chrónáin. As of now, Bus Éireann has issued almost 130,000 tickets to eligible and concessionary students who applied on time. This is an increase of 22% on last year. This year alone, services have been extended to accommodate more than 5,400 children arriving from Ukraine, illustrating the resilience of the system. By introducing these tickets we are not just addressing a demand; we are making a profound difference in the lives of families and students.

In recent weeks the gaps in our school transport system have become very obvious. Issues including driver shortages have left many of our children stranded. I have suggested solutions, such as allowing drivers over the age of 70 to continue driving after an annual medical check, especially since drivers over 70 can continue to drive tour buses in the private sector. Our children need them.

While we recognise the need, there are practical challenges to address. I have had a number of conversations with parents from Newcastle, Rathcoole and Saggart in particular. They have shared their struggles and frustrations. Many children, especially those going to schools in Rathcoole, Naas or Celbridge, find it an uphill task to secure a seat on a school bus. The hurdles do not stop there. I have also spoken to parents of special education students who face unique transportation challenges. One constituent of mine has been waiting for school transport for more than a month, even though he has been sanctioned for it. His parents, despite their best efforts, have not received any meaningful response from the relevant authorities.

It is disheartening to hear of students who rely on a bus service being told in September they have no seat on the bus. This is not just a matter of buses or bus seats; it is about inclusivity, fairness, and our commitment as a community and as a Government to ensure every child has equal access to education. I appeal to the Minister for Education, the Minister for Transport, and the leaders in Bus Éireann to work together on this. It is time to release the report. It is time to devise a plan that truly serves our students and their families.

See this speech in context