In Waterford, parents are up in arms over the lack of subsidized school transportation for their children attending schools in Dungarvan. Currently, parents are forced to pay €40 per week per child for a private transport service, a stark contrast to the €75 annual fee for the government’s “nearest school” transportation plan.
According to Irish Examiner, the parents argue that this arrangement endangers their children’s lives, as they are required to cross a busy national road to reach the designated pickup location. Hundreds of parents and students have taken to the streets of Ardmore, Waterford, for two consecutive weekends, marching to demand a direct school service to Dungarvan.
“Our children’s safety should be the top priority,” said local parent, Sarah Murphy. “The current system forces us to choose between affordable transportation and the wellbeing of our kids. We need a direct service to Dungarvan to ensure our children can get to school safely.”
The parents’ plea highlights the need for the government to reevaluate its transportation policies, prioritizing the safety and accessibility of students, regardless of the school’s proximity to their homes.