The retirement age for certain school transport drivers is to increase by two years from next September.
Under the approved changes, the maximum age for drivers of small public service vehicles (up to eight passengers) operating under the School Transport Scheme will increase from 70 to 72 on a two-year trial basis.
Minister of State Seán Canney said the measure will help maintain vital services for families across the country.
"This is a practical, sensible step that will help ensure continuity of school transport services, particularly in rural areas where driver availability has become a real challenge."
Mr Canney said "experienced drivers are the backbone of school transport in many communities", adding that it makes sense "to retain that experience where it is safe to do so."
The move follows a detailed review process involving Bus Éireann and the departments of Education and Transport, alongside independent safety analysis.
Drivers aged between 70 and 72 will be required to undergo medical fitness certification every six months
The extension will apply to smaller vehicles and will be closely monitored over the two-year trial period. A full review will be carried out before any decision is made on longer-term changes.
"This is about keeping services running for families who rely on them every day," Minister Canney said.
"We are taking a measured approach - trialling the change, monitoring it carefully, and making decisions based on evidence."
