1143. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of applications to the school transport scheme in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2020 to date in 2026; the number of applicants by the date the scheme closed; the number of late applicants; the number of applicants who were medical card holders, by county and by year, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60836/26]

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

The scheme is made up of three separate schemes, the school transport scheme for primary, post primary and for children with special educational needs.

The scheme has expanded significantly over the past six years. In that time, the numbers of children and young people using the service have grown from under 120,000 pupils in 2018 to over 180,000 pupils in 2025, which equates to an increase of close to 50%.

The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in the manner requested. Officials from my Department will provide the available details to the Deputy in the manner collated as soon as possible.