Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 259: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure a reduced rate on the weekly bus fare for low income families who cannot secure a place for their children at their catchment school due to the late notice given to parents on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32253/12]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Changes to the Post Primary School Transport Scheme were announced in Budget 2011 and derive from recommendations in the Value for Money Review of the School Transport Scheme.

The main change to the current scheme means that from the 2012/13 school year, school transport eligibility for all pupils newly entering a post primary school will be determined by reference to the distance they reside from their nearest Post-Primary Education Centre having regard, as heretofore, to ethos and language.

Children who are not eligible for school transport may apply for transport to a particular school on a concessionary basis in accordance with the terms of the scheme.

The current school transport charge for eligible and concessionary post primary children is €350 per annum subject to a family maximum of €650. This charge can be paid in two instalments in July and December. Eligible children who hold valid medical cards (GMS Scheme) are exempt from these charges.

Children who applied for enrolment in their nearest school but who did not secure a place may have their school transport eligibility considered by reference to the distance they reside from their next nearest school. This consideration will only apply where my Department is satisfied that the child's nearest school does not have the capacity to enrol additional first year pupils.