Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 82: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the status of her review of school transport catchment boundaries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47483/10]

Seán Haughey (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, the School Transport scheme was approved by Government as a topic for inclusion as part of the 2009-2011 round of Value for Money Reviews.

This review looked at the original objectives of the scheme, whether these objectives remain valid today, the extent to which the objectives are being achieved, and whether there are possibilities for economies or efficiencies that would improve the value for money of the scheme. In this context, the review also looked at fundamental issues such as eligibility criteria and catchment boundaries, with a view to achieving efficiencies and value for money in the Scheme.

The report of the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme, which will outline the recommendations of the Steering Committee on catchment boundaries, has recently been finalised and the findings and recommendations in the report were considered as part of the budget and estimates process. The report it is to be considered by Government in advance of publication in the near future.

The Deputy will also be aware that as part of the budget changes announced in relation to school transport, from the 2012/13 school year, the use of the catchment boundary system will cease for all new post-primary children. Eligibility for all new children entering post-primary transport will be on the basis of the nearest post-primary centre or school. Existing arrangements will remain in place for existing post primary pupils for the duration of their schooling.