Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 473: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if further to correspondence (details supplied) he will confirm that the rules state that eligibility is to the nearest suitable school and in view of the fact that the nearest school cannot physically cater for the pupil, this can then be determined as suitable; if he will review this decision in view of the fact that physically disabled children are not deemed ineligible if the nearest school is unable to cater for the child's needs and a similar situation arises if the child wishes to be taught through the medium of Irish when the nearest school does not provide this facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43614/08]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The pupil referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, is not eligible for transport as he resides less than 3.2 kilometres from his nearest school. Furthermore, there is no provision under the terms of the school transport scheme to provide transport in the circumstances outlined by the Deputy.

In order to be eligible for transport, under the terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme, pupils must reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and be attending their nearest primary school or Gaelscoil as determined by my Department.

The distance criteria does not apply to pupils with a diagnosed disability and/or special educational need. These pupils are eligible for transport to the nearest recognised: mainstream school, special class/special school or a unit, that is or can be resourced, to meet the child's special educational needs under Department of Education and Science criteria.