Alternative transport arranged for special needs children following service loss

Parents of children attending Cashel’s special needs schools have been reassured after concerns over a sudden loss of school bus services.

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The issue emerged earlier this week when it became clear that the existing transport provider could not resume operations after the Christmas break.

The disruption follows a recent Central Criminal Court case in which several Tipperary-based bus operators were found guilty of breaching the Competition Act. Sentencing for the companies involved is scheduled for March 23rd.

In the immediate term, Bus Éireann advised parents that they would need to make alternative arrangements to bring children to school. The company has confirmed that a special daily grant will be available to help families cover the costs.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page, local councillor Liam Browne said he had been working closely with parents, the schools, and alternative transport providers to resolve the problem.

Councillor Browne confirmed that a new operator has now been secured. Parents are receiving emails detailing the updated transport arrangements, and he hopes that all children’s needs will be fully met by the end of the weekend.

Councillor Browne encouraged any family still without an arrangement to contact him directly, pledging to continue supporting those affected.

He also paid tribute to Edwina Morrissey McElhinney of FUSS, the advocacy group for children with disabilities, for her tireless efforts in coordinating with parents.

FUSS Tipperary has urged families to come forward so it can establish the full impact of the cancellations. The group has promised to continue advocating for the swift reinstatement of transport for every child. Families can contact Edwina Morrissey McElhinney or email tipperarysfightforservices@gmail.com

Local politicians, including Deputy Micheal Murphy, Seamus Healy, and former Cashel TD Martin Browne, are also involved, liaising with parents, Bus Éireann, and the Department of Education to secure a long-term solution for the two special schools in Cashel.

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