Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 257: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her views on the report by her officials on their meeting with persons in relation to transport to a school (details supplied) in County Limerick; if a resolution has been found in the context of the shortage of school places within the Limerick city catchment on that side of the city; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30963/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The report of the recent meeting between parent representatives and officials of my Department regarding school transport for first year pupils attending the school referred to by the Deputy has been presented to me and the Minister of State, Deputy de Valera.

The key consideration in this matter was that the arrangements were contrary to the provisions of the post-primary school transport scheme. The Deputy will appreciate that the scheme is intended to be of general application throughout the country and any departure from its provisions damages its integrity. Therefore, while I note the strong views of parents on the matter, my concern is to ensure that such services are accessible to all eligible students on an equal basis.