Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

207. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills why he has not replied to persons (details supplied) regarding a query sent to his Department on 5 April 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15750/16]

John Halligan (Waterford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Given the increase in the School Transport Section workload, regrettably, it was not feasible to deal with the increased volume of representations in a more timely manner.

In relation to the Deputy's query I can advise that Bus Éireann has confirmed that the two children, referred to by the Deputy, are eligible for school transport under the 'Closed School Rule'. While eligibility under this rule ceased from the commencement of the 2012 school year, children who had an eligibility under this rule retain this eligibility for the duration of their education at the school provided there is no change in their circumstances.

The families, in question, should ensure that their payment details are submitted to Bus Éireann before the 29th July 2016 if they wish to avail of school transport for the 2016/17 school year.