Local Fianna Fáil TD John Connolly is urging families across Galway to submit their applications for school transport services ahead of the fast-approaching deadline tomorrow, April 25, to ensure access to bus tickets for the upcoming 2025/26 school year.
“The school transport system is a vital support for thousands of families, especially in rural areas,” said the Galway West TD. “I want to remind parents that the family portal is now open for new applications for mainstream school transport services for the school year ahead. Any new applications made after the above closing date will be considered late, and a ticket may not be made available.
"New applicants include students starting primary or post-primary school, those who have moved address, or those who have not previously used the service.''
Deputy Connolly is also reminding families that payment or submission of medical card details must be completed by Friday, June 6. The portal will close for three weeks from June 7, during which time no applications can be processed.
Eligibility for school transport is based on distance from the nearest suitable school, 3.2 km for primary students and 4.8 km for post-primary students.
For the 2025/26 school year, charges of €50 per student at primary level and €75 per student at post-primary level will apply, with a cap per family of €125. Eligible children with a full medical card and children who are eligible for special educational needs transport services remain exempt from the annual ticket charge.
For assistance, families can contact the Bus Éireann customer call centre at LoCall 0818 919 910 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm ). Families can also contact Bus Éireann via www.buseireann.ie/schooltransport
