We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Order of Business

School transport route review

Summary

Eamon Scanlon warns that a school-transport review could displace children and force long journeys. The Education Minister says the review aims to minimise disruption and that the responsible Minister will report further.

I want to raise an issue arising from page 89 of the programme for Government, which refers to school transport. At the moment, the school transport section is undertaking a review of all bus routes. This was carried out three years ago in 2013. It has come to my attention that quite a number of people will be displaced because of this. I am aware that some young children may have to move to another school probably 14 km or 15 km from where they currently attend school.

As a former teacher, I am sure the Taoiseach will appreciate that it is wrong to move children in years three or four in secondary school, which are exam years, to new schools with different teachers and students. This matter should be addressed. If children have to attend a certain school, that should happen before they start going to school, not in the middle of their school years.

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

The Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Bruton, might be able to answer that question.

Comment on this
Richard Bruton Minister for Education and Skills Fine Gael

The Minister of State, Deputy John Halligan, is dealing with school transport. As the Deputy knows, he has indicated that a review of school transport is being undertaken. It is certainly his objective to minimise any disruption that would occur to any pupil. That is his objective and he will be reporting back in due course. He has answered parliamentary questions in the House recently and will be happy to answer any additional questions.

Comment on this

He is aware of the constitutionality of primary education.

Comment on this

Can we have order for Deputy Nolan please?

Comment on this