Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 656: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the status with regard to the amalgamation of schools (details supplied). [26965/08]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Under the terms of the Primary School Transport scheme pupils are eligible for free transport if they reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and are attending, their nearest national school or school of amalgamation.

In the case of amalgamations, pupils residing in a closed school area, may be deemed eligible for transport to the school of amalgamation only. Pupils may avail of transport to a school other than the amalgamated school on a concessionary basis. Such an arrangement would be subject to spare seats being available on the service, the agreement of the school of amalgamation being obtained and no additional State costs being incurred by way of re-routing the service.

If the Deputy wishes to supply details in relation to the pupils concerned, my Department may be in a position to provide further information. However if pupils wish to enquire as to the possibility of a concessionary fare-paying service, they should contact their local Bus Éireann office in Sligo.