306. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the safety concerns raised by parents in Ballyboughal regarding the school bus service; her plans to address these concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54280/26]

The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.

Under the current terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest national school, and at post primary level where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre as determined by the department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.

Bus Éireann has advised that families residing in the area referred to by the Deputy are not attending their nearest school/post primary centre and are therefore deemed to be ineligible under the terms of scheme.

Bus Éireann further advise that they reside approximately 3.6kms from the pick-up point of a service to the school referred. Since these children are concessionary ticket holders, routes will not be extended or altered to cater for children travelling on a concessionary basis.

Bus Éireann have advised that they have reviewed the existing pickup point and have deemed this pickup point as safe. Regarding the existing pickup point, the road is not considered to be any more dangerous than other approach roads to pick up points in use throughout the country.

There is an onus of responsibility on parents/guardians to arrange to bring their children to and from the pickup point of a school bus service, taking whatever safety precautions, they consider sufficient in doing so, and accompanying the children to ensure their safety and allay any concern, if necessary.