Criticism in Waterford over school transport fee hike

Concern has been expressed in Waterford over hikes in school transport fees.

Sinn Féin TD, Deputy Conor D. McGuinness has criticised the Government’s decision to increase school transport fees, warning it is another cost being piled onto working families across Waterford and the South East.

He said the move to double the fee from €50 to €100 for one child will hit rural households particularly hard, where school transport is not optional but essential.

Commenting on the matter, Deputy McGuinness said: "This is another blow for families who are already stretched to the limit. Costs are rising across the board and instead of stepping in to ease the pressure, this Government is adding to it."

"For many families in Waterford, particularly in rural areas, school transport is an absolute necessity," said Deputy McGuinness.

"Doubling the cost is a direct hit on household budgets and it will be felt immediately," he added.

He also said the decision "sits alongside" a wider pattern from the Government, commenting: "We have seen the reintroduction of school exam fees this year, adding €109 for junior cycle students and €116 for leaving certificate students. These are real, upfront charges that families must meet."

“There is a blatant contradiction between Government claims that education is free and the reality facing parents," he said.

"Transport fees, exam fees, so-called voluntary contributions, uniforms and devices all add up," he added.

He went on to comment that families know education in Ireland is not free in any meaningful sense.

“The Government continues to announce schemes and supports, but families are judging them on delivery," he said

"What they are experiencing is a steady increase in costs and a failure to take pressure off where it matters," he added.

He said that Waterford he heard directly from parents who are struggling to keep up.

"These are ordinary working families doing their best, and they are being asked to pay more again," said Deputy McGuinness.

“Sinn Féin has set out a clear approach to reduce the cost of education for families," he added.

"That includes moving towards free school transport, ending additional charges like exam fees, and properly supporting families through targeted measures.

“This latest increase should be reversed. Families cannot absorb any more of these incremental costs. Government needs to recognise the reality on the ground and act accordingly.”