Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

668. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if door-to-door school transport will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; the reason for non-provision of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34581/15]

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In general, children with special educational needs are eligible for school transport if they are attending the nearest recognised mainstream school or unit that is or can be resourced, to meet their special educational needs under Department of Education and Skills' criteria.

Eligibility is determined following consultation with the National Council for Special Education through its network of Special Education Needs Organisers.

The child referred to by the Deputy is not eligible for school transport as she did not attend the nearest school that was resourced to meet her educational needs at the time of her enrolment.

Children who are not eligible for school transport may avail of transport on a concessionary basis which is subject to a number of terms and conditions which include the following:-

routes will not be extended or altered, nor will larger vehicles or extra trips be provided to cater for concessionary transport; no additional cost will be incurred;

parents are responsible for ensuring that children are brought safely to and collected safely from Bus Éireann designated pick up and set down points.

Bus Éireann has confirmed that the child in question is currently availing of transport on a concessionary basis.