168 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to correspondence (details supplied) when her Department will make contact with the persons concerned; the reason this has not happened to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34978/06]

The pupil to whom the Deputy refers is eligible for transport to the school referred to in the details supplied. My Department understands that there is not a sufficient number of pupils offering for school transport from the distinct locality in question to set up a dedicated service. However, Bus Éireann which operates the School Transport Services on behalf of my Department, has advised that it has facilitated the pupil with a transport service in the morning only.

My Department will contact the parents regarding the availability of a remote area grant towards the cost of school transport and request Bus Éireann to review the present arrangements.