Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
112. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the future of the 425A bus service following the recent National Transport Authority public consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1764/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I have mentioned already today, there has been considerable investment in services throughout the country under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, improving how rural communities access Public Transport. In County Galway in particular, funding has gone up by 25% from 2023 to 2024 to over €3.6m, boosting passenger numbers by 45%.
A great example of this continued investment can be seen in the improved bus services along the Wild Atlantic Way during the summer of 2025, with the enhancement of Route 350 between Galway and Ennis via the Cliffs of Moher and the introduction of a new Route 351 between the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City, via Fanore. Route 351 was designed to facilitate onward travel with links to Doolin ferries and the Galway-Dublin train services at Oranmore.
In relation to the specific route 425A, the NTA is proposing to amend the bus network serving Athenry and recently launched a public consultation which closed last Friday. The proposal consists of rerouting of the existing Route 425a through Athenry; and the introduction of a new Route 416 to operate between Athenry and Tuam. The NTA are currently reviewing the more than 100 submissions that have been received relating to this consultation.
As with all service proposals, the NTA must carefully assess all submissions received in relation to the introduction of new routes and changes to existing services. While not all proposals can be progressed, the consultation process plays a vital role in informing decisions and ensuring that available funding is directed where it can deliver the greatest benefit for passengers and communities.
