Wednesday, 26 April 2017

Letter from Bus Éireann re. school transport provision

School Transport Provision 2017/18 
 
 
 
I wish to bring your attention to the terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme which are available on the Department of Education and Skills website at www.education.ie. 
Put simply, children are eligible for school transport where they reside not less than 3.2 kilometres from and are attending their nearest school as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.  
In selecting a primary school, it is important that parents are made aware of eligibility criteria for school transport provision because arising from changes which were introduced from September 2011 it may be the case that children in the same family or area may be eligible for transport to different schools. While it is the prerogative of parents to send their children to the school of their choice, eligibility for school transport is to the nearest school. 
Application for school transport can be made online at www.buseireann.ie and must be submitted before Friday 5th May 2017. It is important that applications for school transport are made on time as late applicants are not guaranteed seats. 
 
       Who is eligible? 
            Children who reside at least 3.2 kilometres from and attending their nearest school are eligible for primary school transport. 
 How do I apply? 
Online to Bus Éireann at www.buseireann.ie 
            When do I apply? 
Applications should be submitted before Friday 5th May 2017. Late applicants are not guaranteed a seat. 
            What is the charge? 
The current annual charge is €100 per child with a family maximum at primary level of €220 
            Can I spread the payment over the school year? 
Payments may be made in two instalments in July and December. 
            Are some children exempt from paying? 
Yes. Only eligible children i.e. children residing at least 3.2 kilometres from and attending their nearest school, who hold valid Medical cards (GMS Scheme), do not pay. All other children must pay. 
            Where can I get more details on the scheme? 
Full terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme are available at www.education.ie and www.buseireann.ie.