1537. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is satisfied that the nearest school rule under the school transport scheme is operating fairly for families whose children cannot secure a place in their nearest school; the appeals and exemptions available in such cases; and if her Department has undertaken any review of the impact of the rule on rural families. [63986/26]

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.

In cases where families have applied to attend their nearest school with regard to ethos and language, and have been advised by the school authorities that these schools are full, the Department will consider if the pupil(s) is eligible to the next nearest school.

While the closest school(s) may be full to capacity at present, each family must supply the documents mentioned below, to School Transport Section of the Department of Education and Youth.

• an application for enrolment was made within the deadline dates specified by the school(s), and

• a letter from each of the school authorities confirming that the school was full.

This information should be submitted for consideration to School Transport Section of the Department through the Case Management System which can be accessed by following this link: https://cs.education.gov.ie

Decisions made by, or on behalf of, the Department of Education and Youth regarding the provision of school transport services and/or grant-aid under the terms of the School Transport Schemes may be appealed to the School Transport Appeals Board.

Parents or Guardians of children, or children who have reached the age of 18 years, may make an appeal.

Appeals should be made on-line to the School Transport Appeals Board at www.schooltransportappeals.ie

When received, the Board will liaise directly with the appellant regarding the appeal date and subsequent deliberations.