Cllr criticises bus ireann over route changes

Cllr Maria Murphy has launched a blistering attack on Bus Éireann, accusing the national service provider of altering routes in south Meath without notice.

The Fine Gael councillor has also called on the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Bus Éireann to provide a more integrated service utilising the area around the M3 Parkway train station near Dunboyne.

'They are losing an opportunity to increase their customer base around areas such as Ratoath, Ratbeggan, Batterstown, Culmullen and Kilcloon,' she said. 'Not every family has two cars and we also have a large student population in the area, which needs transport options.'

Every bus travelling on the M3 should access Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown, according to Cllr Murphy. She believes that the present system makes it 'very difficult' for Meath residents to access the hospital using public transport, as they have to go via Blanchardstown Town Centre.

Cllr Murphy also highlighted the 115 bus route, which 'changed without notice'.

She added: 'This bus came through Dunboyne and provided a service to the people who lived on the road to Summerhill and surrounding areas. The bus route was changed to the M4, thereby abandoning the people who had used it for over 50 years.'

She went on: 'Also, with the opening of the M3, we had a situation whereby all the buses who use the N3 and came through Dunboyne changed to using the M3. Road realignments in the area around Bracetown and the now R147 have meant that these buses, for the most part, bypass Dunboyne.'

Cllr Murphy noted that 440 students attend Dunboyne College of Further Education from all over County Meath, and these are mostly young people who cannot afford to drive. 'They need transport options to Dunboyne,' she added. 'If they enrol on a course, they need to know how they can get there and any changes in bus routes has consequences for them.'

Cllr Murphy also criticised the lack of bus stops in Meath. 'Again, the realignment of the old N3 meant that old bus stops were removed and placed in unsuitable locations,' she said. 'A bus stop is needed on the R147 at Plantagen for all the people who live in Piercetown area, and Bus Éireann advised us that they will be completing a review of their services and timetable in March 2015. I am hoping we will see some changes.'