Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company, is pleased to announce significantly enhanced services and timetables which came into effect yesterday, Sunday 22 November 2020.
In conjunction with the National Transport Authority (NTA ), Bus Éireann is offering a significantly enhanced timetable on Route 423 linking Clifden to Westport, Route 446 linking Blacksod to Ballina via Belmullet and Route 450 linking Louisburgh to Dooagh via Westport.
The main benefits include: (1 ) Three round trips daily linking Clifden and Westport, operating throughout the year (previously only peak summer months ) [423]; (2 ) Three weekday round trips daily linking Blacksod and Ballina via Belmullet, operating throughout the year, later evening services [446]; (3 ) Up to seven daily weekday services and six daily weekend services to both Louisburgh and Achill Island, earlier morning arrival before 9.00am into Westport from Achill Island, later evening services [450]; (4 ) From early 2021, all routes will be operated by low entry full accessible buses and (5 )The funding was made available through the Government’s July stimulus plan which will lead to the creation of more than 110 new jobs in public transport.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD said: "I am pleased to welcome the first round of enhanced and expanded Bus Éireann services funded under the July stimulus plan.
"We need to continue to improve and expand public transport across the country to enable people make the switch and I look forward to seeing the continuation of these types of route upgrades.”
Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann said: "We are delighted to announce the introduction of these enhanced timetables and services on these routes.
"Thanks to the National Transport Authority, we can expand these important services, adding 1.1 million kilometres for our customers while creating 21 new driver jobs around the country.
"We will continue to work together with the NTA to increase connectivity across the country for local communities, keeping Ireland connected.”Updated service details and timetables are available at buseireann.ie
"Route 440 services that operated between Westport and Achill Island / Achill Sound will be replaced by the enhanced 450 timetable. Bus Éireann and Expressway services continue to operate at a capacity of 25 per cent under Level 5 restrictions and Government advice is that public transport should be avoided unless the travel is essential.
"Bus Éireann fully adheres to all public health guidelines and is committed to ensuring the continued safety and well-being of its employees and customers observing many precautionary measures including the mandatory wearing of face coverings, vehicles deep cleaning, touchpoint cleaning throughout the day and protective screens and personal protective equipment for drivers."
