PARENTS CONCERNED THAT GOVERNMENT REVIEW COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF SEATS

TWO Cork Fianna Fail TD’s have called on the government to clarify the situation regarding the school transport scheme, which is currently going under a ‘value for money’ review.

Cork East Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe and his Cork North West colleague Aindrias Moynihan said they were concerned the review, which has been going on for a number of months, could result in new changes may see children miss out on school bus places.

Deputy O’Keeffe said he had been contacted by a number of concerned parents in recent weeks.

“Students who were previously allocated concessionary seats are particularly worried, while other fears they may lose out because of changes to school bus routes,” he said.

“I am pleading with Ministers Bruton and Halligan to allow common sense prevail to ensure children can get to school,” said Deputy O’Keeffe.

Deputy Moynihan echoed his sentiments, pointing out that in June minister Halligan made a “solemn promise” to TD’s that no child with a concessionary ticket would lose their place pending the review.

He said the uncertainty that has been allowed to build up over the issue has become a major source of stress for both students and parents.

“The school transport scheme is an essential part if life in rural communities across Cork. We should be encouraging the use of it, not penalising people who want to sign up,” said Deputy Moynihan.

“I was in the Dáil when Minister Halligan made that pledge and I, along with my party colleagues, will be keeping the pressure on both him and Minister Bruton to ensure that promise is kept and every child who is entitled to a seat on a school bus this September has one,” he added.