A new action group has been established to challenge a decision to close rural bus stops between Kilrickle and Ballydangan which are a lifeline for the local community.
The #SaveOurBusStops wants to hear from people directly affected by the recent decision to make redundant Bus Eireann’s stops at Kilreckle, Creagh (Dubarry ) and Ballydangan, just outside Athlone.
Voicing his displeasure, group member Ken Campbell, who is the Social Democrats candidate for Roscommon Galway, said there is a need to challenge the National Transport Authority's decision.
"It’s important that people directly affected by the closure of any of these stops, or who know of others who are affected, to get in touch, so we can challenge the National Transport Authority’s decision.
"For people who rely on these bus stops, the alternatives being offered by Bus Éireann are unacceptable and will leave many people stranded and isolated. The nearest pickup/set down to Creagh (Dubarry ) is Ballinasloe. The nearest pickup/set down to Kilrickle is Aughrim or Loughrea and the nearest pickup/set down to Ballydangan is Athlone Bus Station.
"The loss of these bus stops will be terrible for people, especially those who don’t have their own cars and can’t afford to use taxis. These services are vital to rural Ireland especially for the young and the elderly who have no other means to get to work, college or important medical appointments.
"Rural Ireland is constantly been forced to endure closures and cuts and this is just another way of isolating certain individuals within our community and it cannot be tolerated. In the coming days we are hoping to have another public meeting in Ballydangan (Moore Hall ) where people will be able to voice their opposition to these closures and working together with all those affected by this decision by National Transport Authority we aim to get it revoked," Mr. Campbell concluded.
