Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 470: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will reverse the decision to change the payment arrangements for the school transport scheme 2009-2010 given that the new arrangements will impose additional financial hardship on many parents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16618/09]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that charges will continue to be waived in the case of eligible post-primary children where the family is in possession of a valid medical card. In addition, and in order to minimise the impact of the new charges, a maximum family payment of €650 will apply and, parents will be offered the option to spread the amount due over two payments payable in July and December.

It is not envisaged that there will be a reduction in the annual charge or a change in the payment arrangements.