€2m Transport Fund to benefit students and families across County Kildare

Local Minister James Lawless has announced a new €2 million Transport Fund to support learners with intellectual disabilities, a move that will benefit students and families across County Kildare.

The funding, which was secured by Minister Lawless under Budget 2026, aims to remove transport barriers that have prevented many learners from accessing further education and training opportunities.

The measure increases the overall Fund for Students with Disabilities in the Further Education and Training sector from €5.7 million to €7.7 million.

In Kildare, €180,000 has been allocated for 2026, with supports delivered locally through Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board and nationally coordinated by SOLAS.

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Minister Lawless said the fund would make a meaningful difference: “Access to education should never be limited by practical barriers such as transport. This funding will support learners who want to pursue further education but face challenges getting to their courses.”

“I was contacted by many parents who outlined the difficulties they were experiencing securing funding for transport. These challenges were preventing learners from accessing vital opportunities.”

Minister Lawless confirmed he worked to secure the additional funding and has issued guidance to Education and Training Boards to ensure it is used effectively.

“This is a new and important funding stream that will have a real impact on families. I am pleased it is now in place.

“The Transport Fund aims to ensure that learners with intellectual disabilities can access a broader range of courses and supports within the further education and training sector. By addressing transport barriers, the initiative will help improve participation, progression and outcomes for learners who may otherwise find it difficult to attend courses especially here in Kildare.”