Labour City Councillor Niall McNelis has called for a late night bus service to support businesses and sure staff get home safely.
He said that as was evidenced from the partnership with Bus Eireann, City Council and Galway Races again in action and shuttling thousands daily from City to Ballybrit, the old saying ‘build it and they will come’ is enacted.
He said that following up on the Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF ) and Bus Éireann partnership in 2024, this showed a willingness by customers to use the service and enjoy the concerts.
“I have spoken to many staff members engaged in the Night Time Economy and they are saying this would be a big issue for them on getting home and economically, especially if you don’t have a car or rely on taxis.
“Galway City Council need to engage with The Galway International Arts Festival and Bus Éireann to gather specific data on service performance, ridership, and passenger feedback. This will be valuable for our ongoing discussions around late-night transportation,” he said.
He added that the Night Time Economy Advisors are in communication with the NTA regarding a pilot route to address the pressing need for expanded late-night public transport options in the city and surrounding areas.
“These conversations are still in the early stages but need to be prioritised if we are serious about attracting more into City and Salthill and supporting business and culture.
“Galway City is in a unique position to support a night time economy, we have a vibrant social scene a very young population that wants to be entertained and a tourist and college market that must be supported. Going out and getting home safely and cheaply must be fully supported.” he said.
