447 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review a school transport re-routing in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this child is autistic and that it is causing extreme difficulties to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36151/06]

My Department has requested Bus Éireann to examine the transport arrangements for the pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details provided. When this report is received and considered my Department will advise the family on the position.

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448 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the eligibility criteria for special class or special school placement for a school transport or a grant towards the cost of transport in certain circumstances; the reason a person (details supplied) in County Offaly does not qualify for such a grant despite the fact that this person is a special needs child; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36152/06]

The pupil referred to in the details supplied by the Deputy is not attending his nearest suitable school and is, therefore, not eligible for school transport. The pupil may apply for school transport on a concessionary basis in the normal way.