235 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria for establishing free school transport in the CLÁR areas; her plans to reduce the number of pupils required as part of the criteria; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40691/06]

The terms of the school transport schemes are uniformly applied throughout the country. In general, a minimum of seven pupils, eligible for school transport, must be residing in a distinct area before a school transport service may be established. However, there is a provision in the Primary School Transport Scheme whereby a service can be established for a lesser number of eligible pupils.