Colm Burke (Cork North-Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

95. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to provide an update on progress made to date in relation to the introduction of e-ticketing as part of the school transport scheme; if this will be introduced in the 2026-2027 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59699/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The School Transport 2030 report was published in early 2024 following a comprehensive analysis and review of the scheme as it currently operates. 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.

E-ticketing is already being trialled in some of the pilot areas, and will be rolled out to all pilot areas for pupils on dedicated school transport in the coming weeks.

Additional funding is being provided in 2026 to further strengthen and enhance our School Transport Services, ensuring continued support for families, schools, and communities right across the country.

This funding will allow for further progress in the implementation of School Transport 2030, focusing particularly on vital technology improvements, including e-ticketing, which will enable smarter route planning and maximise seat utilisation which will further improve scheme efficiency and effectiveness.

Not only will eTickets replace the current printed paper tickets but eTicketing will provide accurate information on ticket utilisation, which is currently not readily available.