End of Laois bus service branded 'deeply disappointing'

The decision to end a bus service in Laois because of declining passenger numbers has been described as 'deeply disappointing' by a general election candidate. 

Independent Elaine Mullally has called for the  Reinstatement of Portarlington–Kildare Village Bus Service which is due to cease operation on November 30. 

The Route 816 Portarlington Connector travels between Portarlington – Monasterevin – Kildare. The Big Green Bus, operated by Dublin Coach, provides 16 services Monday to Sunday on the Route. .

The company said: "As a result of declining passenger numbers, Route 816 continues to be uneconomic to operate. It is with regret that we wish to confirm we will be discontinuing this service effective from November 30th 2024."

Mullally said the announcement has sparked concern among local residents, particularly those who depend on the route to travel to work in Kildare Village and Kildare Town.

The Portarlington native criticised the decision, describing it as “deeply disappointing” at a time when public transport is being promoted as a sustainable alternative to car travel. 

“This cancellation could leave some workers unable to commute, potentially costing them their jobs,” she said. “It also sends the wrong message about supporting public transport and reducing car dependency.”

Mullally acknowledged that declining passenger numbers may have contributed to the decision but claimed that this decline "is partly due to ongoing reliability issues and the condition of some older buses". 

“If Dublin Coach improved the reliability of the service and invested in better buses, passenger numbers would likely increase,” she said.

The Independent candidate has called for the route to be reinstated immediately and pledged to actively promote the service within the local community if it is restored. She has also appealed to Dublin Coach to extend the service at least until January, to give affected passengers time to arrange alternative transport or find new employment.

“Pulling the plug on this service just before the busy Christmas period is particularly harsh,” Mullally said. “If the service cannot be maintained long-term, Dublin Coach should at least give passengers a reasonable transition period.”

Mullally concluded by urging Dublin Coach to prioritise the needs of the local community and work towards a solution that balances passenger needs with operational sustainability.