Over 30 children without bus seat in Galway for September

Over 30 children in Co Galway will begin the new school year without transportation, leading parents to demand action from the Minister for Education. The School Transport Scheme, managed by Bus Éireann for the Department of Education, saw a 50% increase in usage in 2025, with over 181,000 children and young people participating.

However, the eligibility criteria remain unchanged, leaving many families unable to secure a seat on the bus. In Clarinbridge, parents like Caroline O Laochdha find themselves in a difficult situation as their children are closer to a different school but are not eligible for a bus to their preferred school due to oversubscription.

Tracey McHugh, whose triplets will attend Athenry secondary school, also faces challenges as the nearest school is oversubscribed and prioritizes local students. Both families are working full-time and have additional responsibilities, adding to their stress. The uncertainty has caused emotional strain, with one parent unsure if her son knows he won't be taking the bus.

Despite efforts to apply for bus tickets through the School Transport Scheme, the family is left in a predicament, with some children having to be driven by their parents to school.