‘Anger and worry’ - Public meeting held over withdrawal of key Kilkenny bus route

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere TD has said the strength of feeling from communities across Carlow and Kilkenny was “clear and undeniable” following a packed public meeting in Mullinavat on the planned withdrawal of the Route 4 bus service between Waterford and Dublin at the end of next month.

Residents, students, workers and families from across the region attended the meeting, voicing deep frustration and concern at the loss of what many describe as a lifeline service.

“I’m delighted with the turnout and the level of engagement from people here this evening,” said Deputy Cleere. “There is no mistaking the anger and worry among residents. People are genuinely anxious about how they will get to work, college and school without this essential service.”

Deputy Cleere said the meeting underlined just how vital the Route 4 service is to rural communities like Mullinavat.

“This is not just a bus route; it is a critical link that keeps communities connected. For many across rural Carlow and Kilkenny, it is the only viable way to access employment, education and essential services. Removing it will have very real and serious consequences.”

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He stressed that the decision runs counter to the needs of rural Ireland.

“Rural transport should be added to, not taken away. At a time when we should be strengthening connectivity, this decision risks leaving people behind.”

Deputy Cleere confirmed he has called on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to introduce a Public Service Obligation (PSO) on the route to ensure it is reinstated and secured on a permanent footing.

“I am keen to deliver a solution for rural communities across the constituency. A PSO is the clear and necessary step to protect this service into the future.”

“I will be putting in a submission to the NTA in due course and would encourage all local groups to submit the same to me so I can include key points highlighting how this loss of service impacts them personally,” he added.

Deputy Cleere concluded by saying he will continue to escalate the matter at national level.

“I will be raising this directly with the Minister for Transport and will bring it to the floor of the Dáíl next week. The message from Mullinavat tonight is clear; this service must be protected at all costs.

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Article funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme