Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin (Wicklow-Wexford, Sinn Fein)
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392. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he has a plan in place to bridge the shortfall of €90 million that was outlined at the presentation for school bus places by Bus Éireann; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31951/25]

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.

Expenditure on the School Transport Scheme has grown significantly, from over €200 million in 2018 to €512 million in 2024 (includes a cost of living advancement for 2025 of €58m).

There continues to be on-going expenditure pressures in the delivery of school transport services. My Department is working to manage demand responsibly within available resources, while continuing to provide a high-quality and inclusive service

Transport for pupils with special educational needs continues to represent the largest area of expenditure within the schemes, accounting for 59% of the total spend in 2024, while serving approximately 13% of the total overall pupils on transport. This reflects the Department’s strong commitment to inclusive access and the provision of tailored transport supports to meet individual needs. Transport for Ukrainian pupils appear from 2022 onwards, following the onset of the conflict in Ukraine and was €16m in 2024.

My Department is actively examining the financial pressures on the scheme. This increased cost reflects both increased demand for services and a welcome expansion in transport for children with special educational needs. Addressing this will form a key part of our ongoing budgetary planning process, whilst ensuring we continue to deliver a quality, inclusive transport service within available resources and in line with Government priorities. We will continue to engage with DPENDR to agree the financial resources required.