Connecting Ireland Project Updates

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119687135#Comment_119687135

They are looking at the proposals on the Connecting Ireland website.

There are maps for each county there.

breezy1985

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119688083#Comment_119688083

I know what it can be used on I'm just saying it's stupid.

It's €5.15 Limerick to Ennis if you book online at any time so just let people tap for that price. It would make commuting on that line easier.

Limerick to LJ and on to local link should be doable without needing multiple systems of payment.

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119673981#Comment_119673981

The 369 service resumed operating per the new timetable from Saturday 8th October.

LXFlyer

The latest service launches next week.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-announce-new-bus-services-for-kildare/

TFI Local Link Announce New Bus Services for Kildare

12TH OCTOBER 2022

TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin are pleased announce major improvements in bus services for Kildare which are due to commence on Monday October 17th 2022 with the new service 821 Newbridge to Sallins Train Station.

Route 821 will see TFI Local Link services being offered for the first time to local communities in Kilmeague, Robertstown and Caragh, as well as an increased service level in Milltown, Allenwood, Prosperous and Naas. Route 821 will operate Monday to Sunday, with the added advantage of services operating up to midnight on Friday and Saturdays.

This new route is funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the Transport for Ireland Network.

Mr. Pat Leogue, Chairperson, TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin, stated the following “The rollout of the new 821 service is a welcome move in the right direction to providing sustainable public transport options for the people of Kildare. The route commencing on Monday, October 17th will, for the first time, see TFI Local Link services being offered to Kilmeague, Roberstown and Caragh on a scheduled basis with over forty trips weekly running through the villages. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, and the National Transport Authority, for the work involved in planning and delivering these new services and to acknowledge the increase in funding for TFI Local Link services in Kildare.

Mr. Alan Kerry, Manager TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin, added that “October 17th will become another important day for the provision of public bus services in Kildare under the TFI Local Link brand. We are confident that Route 821 will offer a substantial alternative to private car dependency for those people residing along the route. The timetable offers connectivity to local train services, along with peak time arrivals into Naas to accommodate employment and education needs. The weekend schedules will again remove car dependency for people wishing to access their social activities. Along with recent reductions in public transport fares and the introduction of the Young Adult Cards, we believe that Route 821 will provide an additional catalyst to allow people to adopt public transport usage as part of their daily lives in rural Kildare”

Along with the establishment of Route 821, passengers will also benefit from the availability of the TFI Go App and TFI Leap providing discounted, cashless alternatives for fares.

For further information please call the TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin office on 045 980281, or visit www.locallinkkildaresouthdublin.ie or visit our Facebook and Instagram pages

The timetable for route 821 is here:

https://locallinkkildaresouthdublin.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Route-821-Newbridge-Sallins-Timetable-Oct2022-Local-Link-Kildare-South-Dublin.pdf

LXFlyer

Another new Local Link service launched today:

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/new-roue-823-bus-service-from-birr-to-portlaoise/

New Route 823 Bus Service From Birr to Portlaoise

20TH OCTOBER 2022

TFI Local Link Laois Offaly is delighted to announce the new Route 823 bus service connecting Birr to Portlaoise, is launching on October 20th 2022. The new service will operate seven days a week, five times a day, Monday to Saturday, and four times a day on Sunday.

Route 823 will provide greater regularity and flexibility than ever before for the communities of Birr, Mountmellick and Portlaoise along with Crinkill, Kinnitty, Cadamstown, Clonaslee, Rosenallis, which are not currently served by any regular public bus service.

With a peak-time service for commuters to Birr, the new Route 823 will provide stronger links to national bus and rail networks in Birr, Mountmellick and Portlaoise and importantly, early and late services to Portlaoise for communities connecting to Dublin and elsewhere.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority, with the aim of increasing connectivity, particularly for people living outside our major cities and towns.

TFI Local Link Laois Offaly Manager, Frances Byrne said, “The timetable for the new Route 823 service is structured to meet other transport links such as Irish Rail and private operators, along with some of our own TFI Local Link Laois Offaly services and provide greater access for the local communities in the rural areas. 

This new route, along with many other planned new and enhanced routes around the country, represent the significant investment in rural transport specifically and in public transport generally by the state”.

For further information please call the TFI Local Link Laois Offaly office on 057 8692168, or visit https://locallinklaoisoffaly.ie/ or visit their Facebook and Instagram pages

The new timetable is here:

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/TFI-Local-Link-Route-823-Birr-to-Portlaoise-4pp-DL-ONLINE.pdf

LXFlyer

Improved and extended Bus Éireann Services are being introduced from Sunday 23 October, 2022, which will all see seven day operations:

Limerick Region:

Route 314 - Limerick-Foynes - Increased frequency and some services extended to Ballybunion via Listowel

Route 328 - Limerick-Hospital-Galbally - Increased frequency and all services extended to Mitchelstown

Route 332 - Limerick-Cappamore-Doon - Increased frequency and all services extended to Cashel

Route 345 - Limerick-Killaloe-Scariff - Increased frequency

Route 320 - Limerick-Croom-Charleville will also have a revised Monday-Friday timetable with additional services between Croom and Charleville.

North East Region:

Route 167 - Dundalk-Ardee - Increased frequency and some services extended to Mullingar via Kells, Clonmellon and Delvin

Route 190 - Drogheda-Navan-Trim - Increased frequency and services every two hours extended via Mullingar to Athlone

Route 466 - Athlone-Longford - Increased frequency and all services extended to Cavan via Edgeworthstown and Granard

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/ministers-ryan-and-naughton-announce-new-and-improved-bus-services/

Ministers Ryan and Naughton announce new and improved bus services

20TH OCTOBER 2022

Ministers Ryan and Naughton announce new and improved bus services

Four enhanced routes from Limerick to Ballybunion, Cashel, Mitchelstown and Scarriff; three in the north-east/midlands

1.7 million kilometres and enhanced connectivity to regional public transport

The Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan, Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton, the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Éireann today announced the start of four new and improved routes linking Limerick to its hinterland and nationally under the new Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, as well as three enhanced routes in the North-East of the country where new connections are being made, alongside the doubling or tripling in frequency of existing services.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton, attended the launch event in Limerick City.

Welcoming the new services, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said: “The Government is very conscious of the need to connect people and places in rural as well as urban areas, with accessible, integrated, and sustainable public transport. The type of connections being announced in Limerick today demonstrate our commitment to linking towns and cities, and providing improved access to centres of employment, education, healthcare, and retail.”

“New routes, more routes and enhanced capacity on our public transport network in addition to the fare reductions introduced by the Government, will make it easier for people to be able to access and choose public transport as their preferred way of travelling this winter.”

Speaking from the launch in Limerick today, Minister Hildegarde Naughton said: “We are very much facing the unknown as we enter a winter of uncertainty presented to us from the global energy crisis. We in Government are committed to doing absolutely everything in our power to support households and businesses through what are incredibly turbulent times. The delivery of 1.7 million new kilometres of bus services being announced today provides a choice for people living and working in the Mid-West and the North-East regions. They now have the choice of public transport that was previously not available to them; they now have the choice to keep more of their own money by using less energy through opting for public transport.”

Continuing, Minister Naughton said “Under Connecting Ireland, we are aiming to increase public transport connectivity for rural Ireland. Public transport is not only an environmentally friendly option but also socially inclusive and can be a cheaper way to get around. Today’s announcement has a far reaching benefit for households, communities and businesses across 10 counties with 72 town and villages benefitting from enhanced services and connectivity. Our plan is to increase public transport connectivity, particularly for people living outside our major cities and towns.”

Extending links from Limerick to Ballybunion, Mitchelstown and Scarriff

The extended Route 314 will link Limerick to Ballybunion, while Route 328 Mitchelstown will triple in frequency, and Route 345 to Scarriff will increase to five daily round trips.

There will be a trebling and doubling of service frequencies and new regional connections between the Midlands and Northeast regions linking Dundalk and Ardee, Drogheda and Trim and Athlone to Longford.

- 10 counties benefitting (Cavan, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Meath, Tipperary, Westmeath)

- 72 towns and villages getting enhanced services and connectivity

- Adding 1.7million kilometres to the overall transport network

- Almost 50 new jobs created

CEO of the National Transport Authority, Anne Graham, said “the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which has been developed by the NTA aims to increase public transport connectivity, particularly for people living outside major cities and towns. With the launch of four new routes linking locations across Limerick and its hinterland and three enhanced services in the north east people in more towns and villages have the option of using public transport services which are now more frequent and reliable”

“We at Bus Éireann are delighted to introduce these new and improved services from Sunday 23 October, significantly increasing access to public transport for more than 70 towns and villages in 10 counties,” said Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann. “Thanks to the National Transport Authority, through the Connecting Ireland Programme/Rural Mobility Plan we are adding 1.7 million kilometres for our customers while creating almost 50 new jobs. Demand for our services is higher now than pre-pandemic, and these new routes and services enable us to connect more people with who and what matters to them. We will continue to work together with the NTA to enhance connectivity across the country, delivering an affordable, reliable and sustainable bus service for communities throughout Ireland.”

Further details on new services can be found at www.buseireann.ie.

LXFlyer

Bus Éireann publicity for the Limerick enhancements:

https://buseireann.ie/service_updates.php?id=6580&month=Oct

More buses for a more convenient journey

Bus Éireann is delighted to announce that we have increased our bus frequency in Limerick, across Routes 314, 345, 332, and 328. This improvement to our service is to better connect the people living in these areas to their local public transport network. Some routes will see an increase in the number of buses across all days of the week and in some cases, even three times the number of daily services. As well as that, additional stops have been added along specific routes to improve connectivity in that area.

And with fares cheaper than ever, there are some serious savings between 30% and 50% on your daily or weekly travels when using your TFI Leap card! Also, make sure to download the TFI Go App today to avail of discounted rates on journeys and for a more convenient way to travel.

Route 314: Limerick ↔ Ballybunion

This route serves counties Limerick and Kerry. Service levels have increased from 50 trips to 104 trips per week, and there will be additional stops as listed below. This service will provide a consistent level of service in both directions for a range of trips and later in the evening. You can also save 30% on single fares when you book online with a TFI Leap Card.

Stops include Limerick City (Various stops) – Mungret – Clarina – Kildimo – Pallaskenry – Kilcornan – Askeaton – Shanagolden – Foynes – Loughill – Glin – Tarbert (New stop) – Listowel (New stop)– Lisselton (New stop) – Ballybunion.

Benefits:

• Frequency is at least doubled along corridor
• A new peak time service for commuters to Listowel
• 8 daily return services Monday to Saturday to Foynes.
• 4 daily return services via Foynes to Ballybunion.
• Convenient set down locations in Limerick City for key locations and city bus services
• Save 30% with a TFI Leap Card, 50% with a Young Adult or Student Leap Card or TFI Go App.

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 314

Route 332: Limerick ↔ Cashel

This route serves counties Limerick and Tipperary. There will be a significant increase in service levels from an average of two daily return services per direction to six daily services per direction (a total of 84 trips per week). There will be a direct service to the University of Limerick, and Cashel will be an additional stop, providing a new connection between Cashel and Limerick. Save 30% with TFI leap Card or 50% with a Young Adult or Student TFI Leap Card.

Stops include Limerick City (Various Stops) – Newport – Cappahanna Upper – Murroe – Drumsally Cross – Cappamore – Doon – Cappawhite – Annacarthy – Dundrum – Cashel.

Benefits:

• New direct service to the University of Limerick
• Frequency on the bus corridor is almost three times the current service level
• Cashel and Limerick City will be connected via public transport for the first time
• There will be a 20:00 service for late evening trips
• Multiple stops in Limerick City for pick-up / set-down of passengers
• Save 50% with a Young Adult or Student TFI Leap Card, TFI GO app.

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 332

Route 345: Limerick ↔ Scariff

This route serves counties Limerick and Clare. Passengers along this route will see service levels increase as this route will operate 7 days a week, with 5 daily return services Monday to Saturday, and 4 return services on Sunday. You can also save 30% on single fares when you use your TFI Leap Card onboard or download the TFI Go app.

Stops include Arthurs Quay – O’Connors Cross – Clonlara - Bridgetown Church - Montpelier - O’Briens Bridge -Killaloe - Foleys Cross - Ogonelloe - Raheen Cross - Tuamgraney – Scariff

Benefits:

• More buses will be added across seven days of the week
• Monday to Saturday, increased frequency from 3 return trips to 5
• Monday to Saturday improvements include additional departures in the morning and a new later service leaving Limerick for Scariff at 20:25
• Sunday, increased frequency from 2 return trips to 4
• Improved connections to Irish Rail services
• Save 30% with a TFI Leap Card or TFI Go App.

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 345

Route 328: Limerick ↔ Mitchelstown

This route serves counties Limerick and Cork. Mitchelstown will now be connected to Limerick on all trips seven days a week. This is a substantial uplift along most of this bus corridor. You can also save 30% on single fares when you use your TFI Leap Card on board or download the TFI Go APP.

Stops include Mitchelstown - Galbally - Ballylanders - Knocklong - Hospital - Herbertstown - Caherline Cross - Caherconlish - Ballysimon - Mulgrave St – Limerick.

Benefits:

• Peak time services to Limerick and to Mitchelstown
• Three times the number of service levels along the bus corridor
• Better connectivity options at Limerick for local/regional bus and national rail services
• Save 30% with a TFI Leap Card or TFI Go APP.

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 328

Whatever you have planned, be it big or small, we hope you enjoy your journey on the Transport for Ireland network operated by Bus Eireann. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon.

These improvements are brought to you as part of the Connecting Ireland programme.

Thursday, 20th October, 2022

LXFlyer

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/new-pso-bus-services-announced-to-replace-suirway-routes-in-co-waterford/

New Public Service Obligation bus services announced to replace services operated by Suirway in Co. Waterford

17 October 2022

Transport for Ireland is delighted to announce new Public Service Obligation (PSO) bus services in Waterford to replace the routes currently operated by Suirway Bus and Coach Services Limited.

In September of 2022, Suirway Bus and Coach Services Limited informed the Authority that they intended to cease operating their local bus services in County Waterford. These routes, the 608, 609, 610 and 611, will run for the last time on the 31st October 2022.

The Authority immediately began an examination to evaluate whether a Public Service Obligation (PSO) exists for the areas impacted by the withdrawal of Suirway. The result of the examination is that the Authority has determined that there is a PSO to serve local transport demand from Portlaw, Dunmore East and Passage East into Waterford City.

Acting on this determination, the Authority has arranged to secure provision of replacement bus services to serve the areas affected on and from the day of the planned withdrawal by Suirway. On 01 November 2022, replacement services will be provided between Portlaw, Passage East and Dunmore East and Waterford City through a combination of services operated by Bus Éireann (on a temporary basis until a procurement process takes place) and TFI Local Link operators.

It is likely that there will be some minor adjustments to times in comparison to the service in operation today, so passengers are advised to consult Bus Éireann and TFI Local Link Waterford websites as the transition date approaches, to learn the scheduled times that buses will serve their stop.

The Authority intends to expand coverage of these new public transport services to also serve Carrick-on-Suir and Cheekpoint, and these expanded services will be introduced when additional resources become available.

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said: “It is a very welcome development that it has been possible to identify replacement PSO services for the people of Dunmore, Portlaw and Passage East which will commence at the start of November. I am delighted that due to the speed with which the new service will be launched, there will be no loss of connectivity to the people of east Waterford arising from the withdrawal of commercial services in the region.”

Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority said “The National Transport Authority was happy to examine the areas affected by the withdrawal of the Suirway services and determine that there is a PSO to serve the local transport demand. The Authority is delighted to announce the provision of replacement bus services to cater to the areas of Portlaw, Dunmore East and Passage East. It is of the utmost importance to the NTA that customers are not left without local connections by public transport.”

Determination of a PSO as a result of the withdrawal of the Suirway Routes in Waterford

PDF 

- 4 MB

LXFlyer

https://buseireann.ie/bus_eireann_news.php?id=6577&month=Oct

Bus Éireann to operate between Dunmore East, Waterford and Portlaw

Changes to Expressway services in the south-east

Bus Éireann is pleased that it will operate Public Service Obligation (PSO) services connecting Portlaw, Waterford city and Dunmore East from 1 November 2022, under contract to the National Transport Authority (NTA), and to support the NTA over time in the development and expansion of this route.

Changes are being made to the route and services operated by the Expressway commercial intercity coach service between New Ross, Waterford and Dublin / Dublin Airport. From Tuesday, 1 November 2022, four of the 12 daily round-trips between Waterford and Dublin / Dublin Airport will be suspended, in response to low levels of customer demand. These services include the three daily X4 round trips to New Ross which will no longer operate.

The Expressway 40 service will continue to link New Ross and Waterford with 12 services daily and 10 on Sunday and public holidays. Bus Éireann public obligation services to New Ross, operated on behalf of the NTA, provide 11 trips a day between Waterford and New Ross Monday to Saturday. 

“Overall, Bus Éireann is growing and expanding in the south-east and we look forward to future opportunities to increase our network in the region,” said Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann. “We are glad to continue to offer strong connectivity between Waterford and Dublin / Dublin Airport with 112 Expressway services a week and to assist the NTA to continue improving regional connectivity with Waterford city. These service changes continue to balance supply with demand ensuring connectivity and we are grateful to our customers and our employees for their support.”

“Nationally, Expressway’s passenger numbers have now recovered to pre-pandemic levels,” said Eleanor Farrell, Chief Commercial Officer, Bus Éireann. “However, this growth in customer demand has not been the case on all Route 4 services. As a commercial business, Expressway operates without subvention and we are continually reviewing the network to match areas of greatest demand. The consolidation of Route 4 services has been carefully planned to result in a more secure and sustainable service linking Dublin and Waterford, and will be kept under review.

“Any customer who has prebooked on impacted Expressway services will be contacted by our customer care team and offered a full refund or a transfer to an alternative service,” she concluded.

Expressway will continue to operate eight daily round-trips between Waterford and Dublin / Dublin Airport. These also serve Mullinavat, Ballyhale, Thomastown, Gowran, Royal Oak, Leighlinbridge Cross, Royal Oak and Carlow.

Tuesday, 18th October, 2022

@LXFlyer

Just want to say thanks for keeping this thread informed of all the latest developments @LXFlyer, it's a great resource thanks to your updates

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119774165#Comment_119774165

Thank you!

I think that in the context of the frequent commentary that “there’s no public transport in rural Ireland”, that this rollout be documented.

The 190 is going to operate from 05:30 to 23:30 every day which is extraordinary.

And then Local Link are filling gaps in the transport network around the country where a smaller bus is ideal. It’s great to see this expansion. It just needs publicising better!

The implementation list of routes is being updated and here’s the latest iteration:

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Connecting-Ireland-Phase-1-Implementation-Plan-Rev4-2022.pdf

LXFlyer

Bus Éireann briefing on the Northeast region improvements:

https://buseireann.ie/service_updates.php?id=6585&month=Oct

More buses for a more convenient journey

Bus Éireann is delighted to announce that we have increased our bus frequency in the Northeast covering parts of the midlands, including Drogheda, Dundalk, Mullingar, and Athlone across Routes 167, 190 and 466. These improvements to our services will enhance the connection for people living in these areas to their local public transport network. Some routes will see an increase in the number of buses across all days of the week, new regional connections, and on/off peak services. As well as that, additional stops have been added along specific routes to improve connectivity in that area.

And with fares cheaper than ever, you can also save 30% on single fares when you book online with a TFI Leap Card, while Students and Young Adults can save 50% on single fares onboard. Make sure to download the TFI Go App today for a more convenient way to pay and travel.

Route 167: Mullingar ↔ Dundalk

This route serves counties Westmeath, Meath, and Louth, and will now operate on a Sunday. Service levels will see a significant increase, from 84 trips per week Monday to Saturday to 196 trips per week Monday to Sunday. This will provide a regional service between the midlands and the northeast, as there is no regular public transport service between Mullingar and Dundalk.

You can also save 30% on single fares when you book online with a TFI Leap Card, while Students and Young Adults can save 50% on single fares when you book online with a Young Adult or Student TFI Leap Card.

Stops include Mullingar (Rail Station) - Mullingar (Austin Friar St) - Delvin - Clonmellon - Kells - Carlanstown - Ardee (Sliabh Breagh) - Ardee (Church of the Nativity) - Ardee (Fair Green) Tallanstown Cross - Mullacrew Cross - Louth Village - Knockbridge Cross - Dundalk (Ardee Rd Garda Station) - Dundalk (Bus Station- Long Walk)

Benefits: 

• Bus service operates Monday to Sunday
• A peak time service for commuters to Dundalk, Ardee and Mullingar
• A new regional connection in the midlands between Mullingar, and in the northeast in Kells and Dundalk.
• Connectivity to regional bus and rail services from Dundalk, Ardee, Kells and Mullingar
• Convenient set down locations in Dundalk, Kells and Mullingar Towns for key locations

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 167

Route 190: Athlone ↔ Drogheda

This route serves counties Westmeath, Meath and Louth. An improvement to the existing route will see a daily return service between Athlone and Drogheda every two hours, via an extension via Mullingar to Athlone. This amounts to 9 daily return services. The current hourly frequency between Trim and Drogheda will remain as is. This will provide a new regional connection between the midlands and the northeast. This service will provide a consistent level of service in both directions for a range of trips and later in the evening.

You can also save 30% on single fares with a TFI Leap Card, while Students and Young Adults can save 50% on single fares with a Young Adult or Student TFI Leap Card oboard.

Stops include Athlone - Golden Island - Athlone AIT - Moate - Mullingar (Austin Friar St) - Mullingar (Opp Pettiswood Manor) - Mullingar (Imperial Tobacco) - Killucan - Raharney - Ballivor - Trim Castle St - Trim (Boyne Bridge Bypass) - Connell's Cross - Balreask Village - Navan - Slane - Drogheda (M1 Retail Park) - Drogheda Hospital (NorthGate East) - Bothar Brugha - Drogheda (Bus Station)

Benefits: 

• Bus service operating Monday to Sunday
• A peak time service for commuters to Drogheda, Athlone, and Trim
• A new regional connection between Athlone and Mullingar in the midlands and Navan and Drogheda in the northeast
• Connectivity to Regional Bus and Rail services from Athlone, Mullingar, Navan, and Drogheda
• Convenient set down locations in Athlone, Mullingar, Navan, and Drogheda Towns for key locations

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 190

Route 466: Athlone - Longford - Cavan

This route serves counties Westmeath, Longford, and Cavan. Notable improvements will be made across this bus corridor, such as the provision of peak time services which do not currently exist. These services will travel in both directions to and from Cavan, Longford and Athlone. In addition, there are multiple off peak and evening services which do not currently exist for passengers.

You can also save 30% on single fares with a TFI Leap Card, and Students and Young Adults can save 50% on single fares with a Young Adult or Student TFI Leap Card onboard.

Stops include Cavan (Bus Station- Farnham St) - Ballinagh - Granard - Edgeworthstown - Longford Station - Keenagh - Ballymahon - Glasson - Athlone (Bus Station)

Benefits: 

• Peak time services in both directions to and from Cavan, Longford and Athlone
• Multiple opportunities to connect with rail services at Longford and Athlone
• A substantial uplift in frequency to 6 per direction per day

*Click here to view the most up to date timetable for Route 466

Whatever you have planned, be it big or small, we hope you enjoy your journey with us and we look forward to welcoming you on board soon.

These improvements are brought to you as part of the Connecting Ireland programme. 

Friday, 21st October, 2022

munchkin_utd

The 466 Cavan-Athlone does indeed tie in snugly with connecting bus or rail services to Sligo/Mayo at Athlone or Longford. Its almost as if that was intentional timing.

Interesting to see too the Athlone-Drogheda and Mullingar-Dundalk routes also get improved services. Along with Cavan-Athlone all were once part of the once a day Interlink Ireland scheme, where buses from all corners of Ireland met up in Athlone at about 2pm and then went back to the corners again.

That interlink service lives on in the timetables with the current Belfast-Cavan-Athlone service, but the day after tomorrow is the last day there is just that one daily bus from Cavan to Athlone!

LXFlyer

New routes in Waterford commencing 1st November, 2022.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/new-routes-354-and-358-for-waterford-from-1st-november/

New Routes 354 and 358 for Waterford from 1st November

27TH OCTOBER 2022

As a result of the planned withdrawal of Suirway operated bus Routes 608, 609, 610 and 611 Transport for Ireland is introducing two new bus routes in the Waterford area from 1st November.

Route 354, operated by Bus Éireann, will run 7 daily services Monday to Sunday, each way between Dunmore East, Waterford City Centre and Portlaw.

Stops include Dunmore East (The Harbour) – Dunmore East (Shanakiel) – Dunmore East (Horsequarter Cross) – Waterford City (Grantstown Park) – Waterford City (Waterpark College) – The Quay (Clock Tower) – Railway Square – Cork Road – Kilmeaden – Portlaw.

View the most up to date timetable for Route 354

Route 358, operated by TFI Local Link, will run 4 daily services Monday to Sunday, each way linking Waterford City to Passage East, Dunmore East and Tramore.

Stops include Waterford City (Various stops) – University Hospital – Passage East – Crooke –Woodstown – Killea – Dunmore East – Tramore (Various stops)

View the most up-to-date timetable for Route 358

Both new routes will provide a consistent level of service in both directions for a range of trips throughout the day.

Save between 30% (Adults and Children) and 50% (Young Adults and Students) when using your TFI Leap card.

Thomas_B

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119774833#Comment_119774833

Do you have any more info about Interlink Ireland? The only other reference I can find is this 6 year old photo of a bus from Belfast marked with an Interlink Ireland destination: https://www.geograph.ie/photo/5168657

I’d be curious to learn more about it. Thanks!

LXFlyer

Some more changes:

Local Link route 566 between Dowra, Drumahair and Sligo was increased in September (not highlighted on the TFI website), and further increased in October.

The new timetable is below:

https://locallinkdsl.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/566-Dowra-to-Sligo-6pg-DL-Oct-22.pdf

LXFlyer

Another new route to launch in Sligo - Route 981 from Sligo to Coolaney.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/further-improvements-on-the-way-for-sligo-commuters/

Further Improvements on the way for Sligo Commuters

3RD NOVEMBER 2022

TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim is delighted to announce that new route 981 Coolaney to Sligo Town will launch on the 8th November 2022. The new service will operate seven days a week with four return services per day and additional late evening services on Friday and Saturday.

Route 981 will provide greater regularity and flexibility than ever before with areas covered along the route including Rockfield, Collooney, Ballisodare, Ransboro and Maugheraboy with stops in Sligo Town including Markievicz Rd, Sligo University Hospital and ATU Sligo before continuing to St Angela’s College.

The service will run 7 days per week with 4 daily return services to Sligo Town with departures from Coolaney at 7:45, 10:00, 14:10 & 17:10 and return services from Sligo Town at 9:00, 13:05, 16:05 & 18:15. Additional services will be provided on Friday and Saturday evenings with departures at 19:20 & 21:20, returning from Sligo Town at 20:15 & 23:15

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority, with the aim of increasing connectivity, particularly for people living outside our major cities and towns. This new route is funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the TFI Network.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim Manager, Fiona O’Shea said: “These new services ensure a significant improvement in the quality of life for people living in these areas. People can now access a wide range of public and social services, training courses, colleges, Hospital appointments, banks, etc.

Having listened to Local Representatives, local community groups, networks and individuals highlighting the real need for a commuter type service in the Coolaney area over the last few months, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim are delighted to commence this service on the 8th November.

Supporting, restructuring and improving rural transport is very important to TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim and in particular we acknowledge the very essential component of transport in combating rural isolation”

Passengers who are in receipt of the Free Travel Pass may avail of these services and for all other passengers there is an affordable fare and the opportunity to use the TFI Go App for even more savings.

For further information please call the TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim office on 074 9741644, or visit http://locallinkdsl.ie or visit their Facebook and Instagram pages

The timetable is at the link below:

https://locallinkdsl.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Rt-981-Coolaney-to-Sligo-6pg-DL.pdf

Glaceon

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119826159#Comment_119826159

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119505805/#Comment_119505805 shows an Interlink from Galway to Dundalk via Athlone in 1980.

Geog1234

Great thread - I think it is indeed important that the longstanding notion that public transport is poor in all rural areas needs to be challenged given the massive improvements (new routes/ additional journeys on existing routes) in many parts of the country in very recent years and coming on stream with Connecting Ireland.

Regarding Interlink there were two hubs - Athlone and Roscrea - created in the 70s and by changing at one of them a variety of journeys across the country could be made. Even to this day there are several routes arriving into Athlone around lunchtime with corresponding mid-afternoon departures. There was a map published at the time which was shown in timetables of the day and also, I think, in a couple of newspaper ads.

Geog1234

PS: while understanding that a lot is involved in the rollout of new and enhanced routes the announcements of new services are often very last minute with a few days' notice being commonplace. It's not unreasonable that announcements really need to be being made ten days to a fortnight in advance of the changes coming into effect to allow maximum awareness amongst the customer base (and potential users) and driving personnel. If anyone thinks I'm being pedantic or over the top I'll mention that Dublin Bus only publicised certain changes (relatively minor ones but that's besides the point) early Summer several days after the changes came into effect...

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119673154#Comment_119673154

Do you have an info on route 432,its supposed to kick off today but there's nothing on the TFI or LocalLink sites. It's the Clifden to Carraroe route

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119843565#Comment_119843565

Can't see anything online about it yet, apart from the piece on Galway Bay FM.

Incidentally, route 431 (Claremorris-Maam Cross-Carraroe) has had a revised timetable since October 19th - the first trip will now start in Claremorris, taking a connection out of the 05:15 train from Westport. Otherwise, running times have changed.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TFI-Local-Link-Galway-Route-431-Timetable-Claremorris-to-Carraroe-2fold.pdf

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119843711#Comment_119843711

Cheers, just thought I'd ask as I couldn't see anything myself

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119844193#Comment_119844193

I’ll keep my eyes peeled - sounds like a fantastically scenic route.

I took the 419 via Roundstone last March and it was stunning.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119844211#Comment_119844211

Got this response

The Route 432 Carraroe to Clifden launch is a bit delayed due to unavailability of the buses. Honestly we do not know where did the Galway Bay Radio get the information about the 7th of November Launch but it was not verified with us. Thank you for sending the link as well. I will go back to Galway bay FM to ask them.

 

Please keep an eye on our social media and website for further updates on that service. We will update them once the service is live.

LXFlyer

The NTA have uploaded the first quarterly progress report:

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Connecting-Ireland-Quarterly-Bulletin-Issue-1.pdf

LXFlyer

Routes 368 and 369 in Wexford have further revised timetables:

Route 368: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TFI-Local-Link-Wexford-R368-New-Ross-to-Enniscorthy-WEB5-Nov-1.pdf

Route 369: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TFI-Local-Link-Wexford-R369-Enniscorty-to-Tullow-WEB5-Nov.pdf

LXFlyer

Route 432 - Clifden-Carraroe is to launch on Wednesday November 16th:

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-galway-are-launching-a-new-bus-service-route-432-carraroe-to-clifden/

TFI Local Link Galway are launching a new bus service – Route 432 Carraroe to Clifden

14TH NOVEMBER 2022

From Wednesday 16th November, TFI Local Link Galway will launch route 432 Carraroe to Clifden, a new seven days a week service. The service will run three return services a day, covering Carraroe, Costelloe, Screebe, Derryrush, Kilkeran, Carna, Leheenagh, Roundstone, Ballyconeely and Clifden, creating a new connection between Roundstone and Costelloe.

The new service will also provide commuters with a new peak-time service that interchanges with direct services to Galway, and improved connectivity to regional bus services from Costelloe.

This new route is funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the Transport for Ireland Network.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Galway based Minister in the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton TD, said “I am delighted to see the launch of the new Route 432 service in Galway, connecting Carraroe and Clifden. As a Galway native, I am very aware of the need to connect people and places, especially in rural areas. High quality, accessible, affordable and safe services for all can play a crucial role in ensuring a modal shift from private to public transport. Public transport is not only an environmentally friendly option but also socially inclusive and economically accessible. This new service is especially timely as we head into winter with rising fuel and other costs”.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Galway Manager Joe Greally said: “This is a very welcome and exciting addition to the Locallink Galway network. We are very excited to be able to announce this after many months of consultation and planning. We are sure that this new service will enhance the lives of the travelling public and give a viable alternative to private transport within this region“.

TFI Local Link rural transport services are an important component of daily life linking people with jobs, education, healthcare, shopping and recreation/tourist facilities. The design of a sustainable transport infrastructure has a fundamental impact on the health and wellbeing of people in the community. It helps address social isolation, improves overall accessibility and provides opportunities for active regular transport and daily physical activity.

For route and timetable information, call (091) 842 384 or visit locallinkgalway.ie

The timetable is here: https://www.locallinkgalway.ie/_files/ugd/9399e5_8854a671ecc640de82e67c2720f80b53.pdf

Fare information is here: https://www.locallinkgalway.ie/r432-fares

Geog1234

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119872288#Comment_119872288

The second page of the report refers to route 572, Sligo - Cavan, implemented on 12th September last however there is no route 572 operating from Sligo to Cavan.

What happened on 12th September is the existing Ballinamore - Sligo route 572 was enhanced but it certainly doesn't run to Cavan and never has.

There are one or two through Sligo - Cavan (and vice versa) journey opportunities by changing at Ballinamore (by using route 929 on the Ballinamore - Cavan section) but these don't seem to be promoted and one is reliant on buses being punctual and drivers/office being in touch with each other.

LXFlyer

Latest addition from December 5th, a large extension of Local Link route 183 to operate from Arklow to Sallins, via Rathdrum, Wicklow, Glendalough, Wicklow Gap, Valleymount, Blessington and Naas.

It will replace Bus Éireann route 133L between Arklow and Wicklow via Rathdrum.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-route-183-sallins-to-arklow-7-day-per-week-service/

TFI Local Link Route 183 Sallins to Arklow 7-Day per Week Service

25TH NOVEMBER 2022

TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow is delighted to announce the enhancement of the Glendalough to Wicklow service which will be extended in both directions now serving Sallins to Arklow, making getting around Wicklow and Kildare by bus even easier.

Operating four times per day, seven days a week, the enhanced route will serve Arklow, Avoca Bridge, Wicklow Town, Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains to Blessington and onwards to Naas and Sallins – facilitating onward travel to Dublin with improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services.

This enhanced route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority, with the aim of increasing connectivity, particularly for people living outside our major cities and towns. This new route is funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the TFI Network.

The existing service connecting Glendalough to Wicklow has served almost 50,000 passengers since its launch in April 2019. The service was hit like so many others in March 2020 which impacted capacity on public transport for close to two years. The current service will now bring an enhanced service to the people of Wicklow & Kildare.

Jackie Meally, General Manager, Local Link CKW said: “This is this first bus service to connect West Wicklow to East Wicklow which has been requested for many years, and this is one of the longest Local Link services in the country”.

The service will operate two buses starting at each end and is being operated on behalf of TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow by JJ Kavanagh & Sons.

To get the timetables contact the TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow office on 0818 42 41 41 or 056 771 5912. Alternatively, you can visit www.locallinkckw.ie or their Facebook & Twitter accounts.

The new timetable is here:

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TFI-LL-R183-Sallins-to-Arklow-WEB5.pdf