GAA bus stop wanted for new Portlaoise town service

The rapidly expanding Laois county town Portlaoise is about to get its own public bus service, but an extra stop is wanted to the GAA grounds.

Portlaoise GAA club grounds is at Rathleague, on the outskirts of the town.

Cllr Tommy Mulligan wants a bus stop so players and supporters can get to it on public transport.

He tabled a motion to the December meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District, also asking for a stop in the Clonkeen area of Portlaoise.

"There are young families in Clonkeen. There is a healthy population there, children would use it. At the moment a bus goes out to McSorleys, maybe this is a viable option.

"In Rathleague, it would greatly benefit teenagers, adults and the elderly. It's an extremely busy club, particularly in the season. Most pitches are played daily. Large numbers of supporters go.

"Parking has been a big issue. They cater for blitzes for visiting clubs and that makes an issue for parking too. They will increase in membership, so there will be a higher volume of vehicles. We have to supply alternative transport to and from the grounds," Cllr Mulligan said.

Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald seconded the motion. 

"Traffic is a huge problem in Portlaoise, bumper to bumper on every road now. Portlaoise GAA Club is an obvious stop. Even for parents, to know their kids can get there and home safely, it's a no-brainer. I think it's a very strong case to make," she said.

The new Portlaoise bus service is expected to be operational by February 2025.

In reply to the motion however, area engineer said that the National Transport Authority is responsible for choosing the bus route and stops, covering two routes, P1 and P2.

"It's not on P1 or P2. We have discussed additional routes, and we'll advise them of the request," Mr McLoughlin said.