Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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122. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the changes planned in the school transport scheme for the 2025-2026 school year in order to ensure all children will be accommodated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16932/25]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The School Transport 2030 report, which was published in early 2024 marks the largest review of the School Transport Scheme since it was established in 1967. I am committed to working to achieve the report’s recommendations of expanding access to the scheme so that an additional 100,000 pupils can be carried by 2030, and to continue to improve the scheme to that it provides a valuable service for those families who rely on it, while providing value for money to the Exchequer.

The recommended changes to the future operation of the scheme include expansion of the current eligibility criteria, addressing current operational challenges and moving towards better integration with public transport. A phased implementation of the review’s recommendations began at the start of the current school year.

As indicated at the time of the launch of the review, a number of pilots were to be trialled in the 2024/2025 school year, in conjunction with the Department of Transport and Bus Éireann. As also indicated at that time, it was intended that following closure of the application process for the 2024/2025 school year consideration would be given to further potential pilots.

A total of 14 pilot projects are underway this school year. These pilots are currently being evaluated and they will provide valuable insights into the impact of increased demand on the scheme, the potential for integrating public transport with school transport services, and opportunities to promote more sustainable modes of transport. The findings from the evaluation will guide the planning and implementation needed for a national rollout of a revised School Transport Scheme.

Bus Éireann’s family portal is now open to accept new school transport applications for the 2025/2026 school year.

Planning for the 2025/2026 school year is well underway between my Department and Bus Éireann.