Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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876. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if, in the case of damage caused to school transport by a special needs child on a single occasion, such damage arising out of their disability and medical condition, the child can be suspended from the transport and parents held liable for such damage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19933/22]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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School Transport is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the current school year over 121,400 children, including over 15,500 children with special educational needs, are transported on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country at a cost of over €289m in 2021.

The purpose of the School Transport Scheme for children with Special Educational Needs is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children with special educational needs arising from a diagnosed disability. Children are eligible for transport where they have special educational needs arising from a diagnosed disability in accordance with Department criteria and  are attending the nearest recognised mainstream school, special class or special school, that is or can be resourced, to meet their special educational needs.  

Any incident in relation to damage caused on board a service transporting a special needs child/children is fully investigated by Bus Eireann. A key priority at all times is ensuring the safety of the children , escorts and the Driver on board the service. If damage is caused to a vehicle, it may  be necessary to withdraw a vehicle for repair and this may result in a potential disruption to the service.

Bus Eireann reviews each case on an individual basis and  will always work with the parents, school authorities,  school bus escorts and relevant personnel to ensure continuity of services for children with Special Educational Needs, whilst always ensuring that the service can operate safely for those travelling on board.