The much talked about ‘rural local link’ bus service began in Laois on Friday June 22.
This is a pilot scheme and the first services in Emo, Mountrath and Castletown took place over the weekend.
Laois-Offaly Fine Gael TD, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, welcomed the new bus.
She said: “I am really pleased that the proposal which I made at the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party and during the course of the debate on the Road Traffic Amendment Bill has now resulted in this new evening service for Offaly and Laois.
“I would particularly like to thank Deputy Martin Heydon for the work that he has done on behalf of the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party who agreed with my initial proposal.
“Late evening services will also operate in Emo and the surrounding area and Mountrath, Ballyfin and Castletown.
“The services will be operating on an exploratory basis and passengers will be required to book in advance as this is a door to door service.
“This is a new service and I hope it will benefit those who wish to get out and about in the evenings. As it is a pilot scheme, the more it is used, the better chance it has of being retained.
“I would encourage all those living along the new routes in the areas chosen in Offaly and Laois to try out the new evening services and ensure it is a success.
“During the debate on the Road Traffic Amendment Bill, the huge concerns about rural social isolation were brought to the fore. This new service is about connecting our communities and ensuring our rural transport services work to meet people’s needs.
“This bus service extension into the evening will be particularly useful for people living alone who require transport to and from social events, their local card drive, fundraisers, to meet friends and participate in community events.
“I strongly believe our rural transport network has the potential to link many parts of rural Ireland and improve connectivity for rural dwellers around the country, if it is properly structured and resourced.”
The bus costs €5 return and €3 single.
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