Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

I again thank Senator Kennelly for raising this important matter. I will bring the specific concerns he raised in respect of the schoolchildren in Lixnaw and Abbeydorney. The Senator is familiar with the area and genuinely concerned about the matter.

The Bus Éireann family portal is accepting payments or medical card details until 6 June. It is important that parents ensure they submit their payments or medical card details. After this deadline of 6 June, applications will be deemed late and a late submission of payment or medical card details may mean that a seat is not available. This is something people should be conscious of. Following the closing date for payment or entering medical card details, Bus Éireann will close the portal, giving Bus Éireann time to assess all applications and plan for routes for the service for the 2025-26 year.

I will bring the set of circumstances the Senator raised to the Minister of State, Deputy Moynihan, and the Department of education. I have no doubt that the Senator will follow up with them and Bus Éireann as well.