Liam Quaide (Cork East, Social Democrats)
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423. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) will be included on the pilot school bus schemes envisioned under School Transport 2030. [62718/25]

Michael Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail)
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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. It is proposed to expand access to the scheme so that an additional 100,000 pupils can be carried by 2030.

It was outlined at the time of the review’s publication that due to the scale of the scheme it would be prudent to implement proposed changes on a phased basis. A phased implementation of the review’s recommendations began at the start of the 2024/2025 school year in conjunction with the Department of Transport and Bus Éireann. A total of 14 pilot projects took place in the 2024/2025 school year and are continued for the current school year.

As part of these pilots, the distance criteria for pupils is reduced to 2km for primary and post primary and the need for a pupil to be attending their nearest school is removed. Pupils are still considered as concessionary and the priority is to provide transport for pupils who are eligible under the current scheme criteria.

A pilot route was set up in the school referred to by the Deputy for the 2024/2025 school year. This service accommodated 33 pupils on a new service and has been continued for the 2025/2026 school year.

Overall, the school is currently served by 6 school transport services, accommodating 268 pupils.

Under the current terms of the scheme, a minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits. Eight concessionary pupils missed out on tickets for the current school year; these pupils all reside in different areas.

In the coming months, e-Ticketing will be introduced on some dedicated school transport pilot routes, with families being advised on how pupils should use their the new school transport cards. E-ticketing will enhance students’ experiences on school transport and allow for greater visibility on seat usage. With better data, this will inform future route planning and maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of the system. These pilots will provide valuable insights on the impact increased demand will have on the scheme.