Parents of children with special educational needs (SEN) are facing uncertainty over school taxi arrangements as new contracts are yet to be confirmed by the Education Authority (EA).
Columba Mailey, from Greysteel, County Londonderry, described the situation as "hurtful and deeply frustrating" as he awaits confirmation of a taxi firm for his seven-year-old autistic daughter, Maisie. He highlighted that familiarity with a driver is crucial for Maisie, who is non-verbal and requires one-to-one supervision.
The EA acknowledged that changes to transport can be unsettling for children with SEN, particularly those who rely on routine. However, it stated that it has a responsibility to ensure value for money and must periodically refresh contracts.
In February, an agreement for over £900,000 in savings was reached between the EA and taxi operators, following a request for drivers to reduce their rates by 10% or face contract termination.