James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 583: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will direct Bus Éireann to rescind the decision to increase bus fares for students attending secondary schools due to the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43196/09]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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I advised the Deputy in a reply to a previous Parliamentary Question that a new annual charge was introduced with effect from the beginning of the 2009/10 school year.

Receipts from charges represent about 6% of the overall cost of school transport. The allocation for 2009 is €192 million. In order to minimise the impact of the new annual charge of €300 - A maximum family rate of €650 applies - Charges have been confined to eligible post-primary children and children availing of concessionary transport - Waivers continue to apply in the case of eligible post-primary children where the family is in possession of a valid medical card - Eligible children attending primary schools and children with special needs still travel free. - Parents were facilitated to pay the annual amount in two instalments - in July and December.

While I appreciate the Deputy's concerns, it is not envisaged that there will be a change in the payment arrangements or a reduction in the amount charged.