THE annual school transport saga has returned, with families of children across County Limerick receiving letters of refusal for a place on the bus, operated by Bus Éireann, according to local TD Richard O’Donoghue.
Deputy O’Donoghue criticised the Department of Education for failing to strategically plan, revamp, or improve the provision of the school transport system.
“Year after year, every August and September, parents and children are confronted with the same distressing issues,” he said.
“The Department’s lack of urgency in addressing these problems is deeply concerning. This is a failing and the problem arises every single year like clockwork. Little has changed, only different families have been affected by the bus ticket lottery system.”
The County Limerick politician pointed out that a review of the School Transport Scheme began in 2021, and the findings, along with recommended changes, were published in January 2024. However, no improvements have been made to the system for the beginning of this new school year he said.
“The report clearly outlines actionable recommendations that could significantly improve the scheme. It suggests removing the ‘nearest school’ requirement if there are existing bus routes or if there is enough demand for a new route (at least 10 pupils), and reducing the distance required for pupils to qualify for the scheme,” the County Limerick TD said.
A spokesperson for the Minister for Education told the Limerick Post that children who are eligible for school transport and complete the application process on time will be accommodated on school transport services where such services are in operation and where capacity exists.
“Children who are not eligible for school transport may apply for transport on a concessionary basis only and will be facilitated where spare seats are available after eligible children have been accommodated,” the spokesperson said.
“Where the number of ineligible children exceeds the number of spare seats available Bus Éireann will allocate tickets for the spare seats using an agreed selection process.”
The spokesperson said that “in the 2023/2024 school year, over 161,600 children were transported daily to schools throughout the country, including over 135,000 pupils travelling on primary and post primary services, 19,800 pupils with special educational needs, and 6,800 pupils who have arrived to Ireland from Ukraine. This is an increase of over 40,000 children in the last five years. The total cost of the scheme in 2023 was €382.02m.”
“At the closing date for payment of 7 June 2024, some 138,700 payments were received in respect of applications for primary and post-primary school transport services the 2024/2025 school year. Tickets have issued to a significant number of applicants at this stage.
“Bus Éireann is continuing to allocate tickets as planning for routes is finalised. Families who are unsuccessful in obtaining a seat will be notified via email and a refund will issue.”
