Shane Moynihan (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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524. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if consideration can be given to issuing new contracts for the School Transport Scheme without delay after the expiry of each term at the end of June; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29219/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.

Bus Éireann tenders approximately 20% of school transport routes each year as part of a rolling five-year tendering cycle. This year’s process began in February 2025, with awards issued on 29 May 2025. Once the standstill period concludes, Bus Éireann will proceed with the signing of contracts.

In addition to the five-year cycle, Bus Éireann also tender for one-year contracts to cover newly sanctioned services throughout the year. Tendering for newly sanctioned routes for the upcoming school year will commence this week and will continue throughout the summer.

Bus Éireann are actively seeking professional driving contractors operating coaches, minibuses, and taxis to join the School Transport Scheme and further information can be found on Bus Éireann | Becoming a School Transport Provider (www.buseireann.ie/contractors).

Queries on procurement from suppliers should be directed to beschooltenders@buseireann.ie.