CALLS have been made to expand the eligibility for the school transport scheme, due to fears over children’s safety.
The issue was raised by a representative of the Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB) at Tuesday’s meeting of the Local Community Safety Partnership.
Ms Rosaleen Harkin made calls to expand the distance eligibility for pupils.
The current distance criteria which requires primary pupils to live at least 3.2 km from their nearest school and post-primary pupils to live at least 4.8 km away.
Ms Harkin is particularly concerned for Ukrainian students and those living in International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) who do not have access to another form of transport.
She said in Letterkenny where many are unable to get a space in their local school, children could be left with no other choice but to walk long distances on unsafe roads.
Cathaoirleach Gerry McMonagle agreed that the LCSP would write to the relevant bodies on the matter.
REVIEW
A recent review of the School Transport Scheme completed by the Department of Education and Youth examined the current scheme, its broader effectiveness, and sustainability and to ensure it services students and their families adequately.
The recommendations of the report also advised the expansion of the current eligibility criteria.