Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I again thank all Members for the opportunity to update them on school transport. It is important to note that the normal eligibility criteria of the scheme still apply and that tickets continue to be allocated in line with these criteria. I know that many families, whatever their eligibility status, rely on this scheme and this consideration has been factored into the analysis under way as part of the review of the scheme. I have noted the contributions of Deputies here this evening and I will bring them to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Foley.

I reiterate that no service has been cancelled. Obviously it is extremely regrettable that a number of contractors have handed back contracts at short notice but Bus Éireann is prioritising the establishment of new services for the small number of families that are affected. Bus Éireann continues to engage directly with families affected and updates them with regular communications on the position with the transport services. I understand that the last communication issued on 15 September.

I remind Members that what is known as the exceptional interim grant is being made available to families of children in mainstream schools who, following the application process, are eligible under the terms of the school transport scheme and are awaiting a school transport service to be put in place. The Department has established this exceptional grant payment to assist with the cost of private transport arrangements families may have to put in place until the service begins. An interim special transport grant is also available to families of children eligible for special educational needs transport. Families do not need to make an application for these payments. Those who have been issued a ticket or are eligible for special educational needs transport and do not have a service in place will be contacted directly by the Department of Education with full details of these payments.

As I mentioned, the Department is conducting a review of the school transport scheme. The technical working group has undertaken extensive consultation, including running a public survey for parents or guardians and students who use the service and those who do not use the service but who would like to use it. These engagements have yielded extensive data to consider, along with wider considerations relating to the operation of the scheme. The group has also consulted with a broad array of stakeholders including schools, special education interest groups, industry representatives and other Departments. Once approved by the Government, it is planned that the review will be published. Once again, I thank all Members for the opportunity to update them on school transport for the current and coming school year.

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