More pupils will be able to get the bus to school following changes worth £2.8 million to the school transport scheme made by Mr McCreevy.
The Minister is allowing second-level pupils living two miles or more from their school to avail of the Department's bus service.
Up to now it was only those living three miles or more away who could avail of it.
The number of pupils needed for a bus service is being dropped from 10 to seven. A service will also be maintained if there are only four pupils, once there is a minimum of six fare-paying pupils also using it, said Mr McCreevy.
He said he would also lower the loading capacity of some vehicles. This follows criticism from some parents that buses were so packed that health and safety could be threatened. He also said the remote area grant - available to parents of children living long distances from school - would be increased, although details were not given.
A recent report by retired civil servant Mr Sean Cromien said the Department should consider outsourcing the school transport system. Under the capital expenditure heading, Mr McCreevy is allocating £3 million for science equipment for second-level schools. About £1.25 million is earmarked for computers and associated aids for the special education sector.