Changes to Post Primary Scheme
POST PRIMARY SCHOOL TRANSPORT SCHEME
Changes Introduced for the 2011/12 school year
A number of changes to the Post Primary School Transport Scheme came into effect from the beginning of this school year (2011/12). Included in these changes is an increase to ten in the minimum number of eligible pupils from a distinct locality, as determined by Bus Éireann, required to establish/retain a school transport service. The annual charge per pupil was increased to €350 but the family maximum remains at €650 per annum. Eligible pupils holding valid medical cards (GMS Scheme) continue to be exempt from paying this charge.
Changes to be introduced for the next school year (2012/13)
From the commencement of the 2012/13 school year, the use of the Catchment Boundary Area (CB) System as a means of determining eligibility will cease for all pupils newly entering post primary school.
- From the 2012/13 school year, school transport eligibility for all pupils newly entering a post primary school will be determined by reference to the distance they reside from their nearest Post-Primary Education Centre having regard to ethos and language.
- To be considered eligible for school transport, pupils must reside 4.8 kilometres or more from and be attending their nearest Post-Primary Education Centre, as determined by the Department and Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.
- Pupils who are not eligible for school transport, under the above criteria, may apply for concessionary transport subject to a number of terms and conditions. These concessionary pupils will not be exempt from paying the annual charge nor will they count for the establishment or retention of a service.
Further information or additional clarification may be obtained by contacting your local Bus Éireann office or School Transport Section, Department of Education & Skills.
Monday, 6th February, 2012