A Mayo TD has called for a major overhaul of public transport options between Mayo and Dublin City, including an express service to Ireland’s largest airport in the capital.
Highlighting the inadequacy of the current inter-regional bus services, Deputy Alan Dillon emphasises the need for a step change by private and public transport operators to better serve the people of Mayo.
At present, towns like Westport, Castlebar or Claremorris lack a direct bus service to Dublin city and airport, while the Bus Eireann expressway bus service (Route 22) to and from Ballina only covers parts of Mayo with a connection at Foxford, Swinford and Charlestown.
The Mayo TD tabled a Dail debate insisting the National Transport Authority (NTA) establish additional high frequency services connecting all of Mayo with Dublin city and airport, catering to the growing demand for these routes including the needs of students.
Deputy Dillon said: “I have submitted a proposal to the NTA, with a follow up meeting scheduled, highlighting the necessity for a high-frequency coach service between Mayo and Dublin.
“I’ve emphasises that bolstering public transport is crucial not only for climate action but also for meeting the transportation needs of Mayo students attending colleges in cities and towns.
“In other counties, Aircoach and Citylink provide high-frequency services to interregional cities and airports.
“It is essential that Mayo has a similar service in place to meet the needs of its people.
“The implementation of such a service would not only benefit the local community but also have a positive impact on tourism in Mayo.”