Fine Gael TD for Mayo, John O’Mahony, has dismissed criticism by Roscommon Sinn Fein councillor, Michael Mulligan, of his role in the removal of local bus services to Carracastle. Cllr Mulligan incorrectly stated at a public protest that Deputy O’Mahony could have acted to prevent changes to bus services to Carracastle.
“Cllr Mulligan’s criticism that I could have acted ‘months ago’ to prevent this issue is baffling given that I acted on being notified about the proposed changes. It is disappointing that, in trying to score political points, Cllr Mulligan will not let the truth get in the way of publicity.”
Deputy O’Mahony said: “For the record, I raised the issue in Dáil Eireann on October 2, the day after I learnt about the proposed changes. I also met with Martin Nolan, chief executive of Bus Eireann and area manager, Rory Leahy and made representations to Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, to have services restored to Carracastle.
“Following my meeting, I received confirmation that that the morning service from Ballina to Dublin expressway bus and the Dublin to Ballina evening service will continue to serve Carracastle. I have communicated this to the people of Carracastle by letter.”
The Deputy concluded: “Furthermore, Bus Eireann then informed me that they would extend the service between Ballina and Charlestown to include Carracastle on Wednesdays. Only this morning I have been informed by Bus Éireann that the service to Tuesdays from Charlestown/Knock/Castlebar will be extended to Carracastle.”
