James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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535. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the provision that will be made for the students (details supplied) in County Longford who have not yet been provided with transport to their designated secondary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37089/14]

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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536. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will sanction an additional bus transport service for persons (details supplied) in County Longford not provided with secondary school transport to their designated school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37090/14]

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 535 and 536 together.

The closing date for receipt of applications for school transport was 25 April 2014; the closing date for receipt of payments or submission of Medical Card details was 25 July 2014 and this was subsequently extended to 1 August.

It is understood that these children were late applying/and or making payment for the 2014/2015 school year. However, I have asked Bus Éireann to verify the factual position in relation to the children in question. I will then contact the Deputy directly to outline the position on this matter.

I would stress the importance of families ensuring that their applications and payments for school transport are submitted in a timely manner, before the appropriate closing dates.