76514 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Associate Minister of Education

76514 (2024). Hon Dr Duncan Webb to the Associate Minister of Education: Will the parents of students who face difficulties travelling to school as a result of Ministry of Education bus cuts under the current government be liable for fines, Ministry-led prosecution, or school-led prosecution supported by the Ministry, in accordance with the Associate Minister’s proposed STAR plan?

Hon David Seymour: Prosecution will only be considered in circumstances where parents actively avoid, evade, and dismiss the help and supports provided to them to address barriers to school enrolment and attendance. The primary responsibility for transporting children to and from school rests with their caregivers. Eligible students affected by a route termination can apply for a conveyance allowance to assist with their transport costs, or in some cases, access an alternative route. Caregivers can apply online via the Ministry’s website. School Transport falls within the Minister of Education’s Portfolio. This is also my response to written parliamentary question 76515 (2024).