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07 Sept 2025
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07 Sept 2025
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Bus Eireann File Photo
Louth Senator John McGahon has called for Bus Éireann to allow bus drivers over the age of 70 as the summer season approaches and school transport becomes a pressing concern.
Senator McGahon said that each year, Bus Eireann says they will struggle to find drivers for the number of routes, and yet, they don’t allow anyone over the age of 70 to drive.
The Department of Transport should encourage Bus Éireann to reconsider their policy that restricts bus drivers over the age of 70 from working, he continued.
Considering the existing scarcity of bus drivers and its impact on Ireland's transportation network, Senator McGahon believes that age should not be the sole determinant in assessing a driver's capabilities.
Instead, he proposes that factors such as medical assessments, eyesight evaluations, and driving tests should be considered to ensure fairness and safety.
Senator McGahon said: “Many drivers over the age of 70 are already working safely on tour buses across Ireland, but they are unable to drive on short school bus routes due to the current age restriction.
“As we enter the summer season and face the challenges of school transport, it's essential Bus Éireann reassess its age restriction policy.
"Experienced and safe drivers over 70 should be given equal opportunities based on medical, eyesight, and driving assessments rather than an arbitrary age limit.
“It would put hundreds of experienced bus drivers back on our roads.
"We are urging the Department of Transport to engage with Bus Éireann to reconsider this policy for the benefit of both drivers and passengers.”
In light of these concerns, Senator McGahon is writing to the Department of Transport to put pressure on Bus Éireann to reevaluate their policy and give capable and safe drivers over the age of 70 an equal opportunity to work as bus drivers.
This policy change would promote inclusivity and ensure that experienced drivers can continue to contribute to the transportation sector while alleviating some of Ireland’s transport issues concluded Senator McGahon
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