Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I and every Member of the House, particularly Deputies from rural constituencies, appreciate the importance of the school transport system. It is for this reason that the system is underpinned by significant funding, with almost €339 million expended last year. An additional €50 million has been provided this year to ensure greater access and to allow children to avail of school transport. This is increased investment is due in the main to the cost of contractors to cater for the increase in pupil numbers projected in 2024. We provided €42 million to keep the cost of school transport at a reduced rate, which is an important consideration for families.

As with any scheme, there must be criteria and the criteria have not changed. Students who were eligible under these criteria received a seat on a school bus, while those who were not eligible under the criteria could, if fortunate, receive a not eligible or concessionary ticket. The criteria have been unchanged for the last number of years and they have been abundantly clear.

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