Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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331. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the post-primary school transport scheme in view of the difficulty that it is causing families; if his attention has been drawn to the disruption evident as a result of changing from catchment area to closest school; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the changes are forcing extra expenses on families who want their children to attend a certain school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37861/13]

Ciarán Cannon (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that from the commencement of the 2012/13 school year, school transport eligibility for post primary pupils is being determined by reference to the distance they reside from their nearest post-primary education centre having regard to ethos and language.

Pupils who were eligible for school transport prior to the introduction of the above change will retain their transport eligibility for the duration of their post primary education cycle provided there is no change to their current circumstances.

Siblings of these pupils and other pupils, who are not eligible for school transport, may apply for transport on a concessionary basis only in accordance with the terms of the Post Primary School Transport Scheme. Only children who are eligible for school transport and who hold valid medical cards (GMS Scheme) are exempt from paying the annual charge.

The changes to the Post Primary School Transport Scheme are being applied equitably on a national basis.

While it is the prerogative of parents to send their children to the school of their choice, eligibility for school transport at post primary level is to the nearest education centre/school.