558. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Youth the steps she will take to accommodate a small number of concessionary students (details supplied) who did not receive seats for an existing school bus route from Ballymacarbery to Dungarvan, County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [65047/26]

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

Under the terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kms from and are attending their nearest national school. At post primary level, they are eligible where they reside not less than 4.8 kms from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre. Distance is determined by the Department/Bus Éireann and rules have regard to ethos and language.

A minimum number of 10 eligible children residing in a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, are required before consideration may be given to the establishment or retention of school transport services, provided this can be done within reasonable cost limits.

Children who are eligible for school transport and who complete the application process on time (apply on time and pay on time) are accommodated on school transport services where such services are in operation and where there is capacity to do so.

Children who are not eligible, but who apply for school transport are considered for spare seats that may exist after eligible children have been facilitated; previously referred to as concessionary seats.

Because of the nature of transport for non-eligible children and the priority of providing places for eligible children, there may be an excess of demand over supply for non-eligible pupils. In these cases Bus Éireann will allocate tickets for spare seats using an agreed selection process.

Bus Eireann has advised that the pupils mentioned by the Deputy who reside in the area referred by the Deputy are not eligible for transport as they are not attending their nearest post-primary school/centre.

Bus Eireann further advised that the service is operating to capacity. Since all eligible children who applied and paid or entered their medical card details on time have been accommodated, a new service is not warranted at this time.