James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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330. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if she will outline the schools that were included in the 14 pilot projects for the school transport scheme in the 2024-2025 school year; if she will confirm the timeline when the findings of these projects will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23233/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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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. The Government is committed to working to achieve the report’s recommendation of expanding access to the scheme so that an additional 100,000 pupils can be carried by 2030. The recommended changes to the future operation of the schemes include expansion of the current eligibility criteria, addressing current operational challenges and moving towards better integration with public transport to ensure the best value for money to the Exchequer. A phased implementation of the review’s recommendations began at the start of the 2024/2025 school year.

As indicated at the time of the launch of the review, a number of pilots were being considered by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Transport and Bus Éireann. As also indicated at the time of the launch of the review, 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. A list of the pilot projects is attached by area.

Further information on plans for the 2025/2026 school year will be available shortly.