“We will not let up” - Senator Duffy backs campaign to restore vital Mayo bus route
Calls for NTA intervention as residents seek return of stop on Ballina-Galway route for Strade Community
The campaign to restore a vital public transport link for the Mayo village of Straide was raised in Seanad Éireann this week, with Senator Mark Duffy calling for immediate action to reinstate the community on the Ballina to Galway bus route.
Speaking during the Order of Business in the Seanad yesterday (Thursday, June 18), Senator Duffy voiced his support for local residents who have been campaigning to have the service returned after Straide was removed from the route when operations transferred from Bus Éireann to Citylink.
The route, formerly served by the 52 bus service, connected Straide with Foxford, Ballina, Castlebar and Galway, providing an important transport link for residents travelling to work, education and medical appointments.
Senator Duffy described the loss of the service as a “devastating blow” to the rural community, particularly given that two new bus stops had recently been constructed in the village.
“Straide is a rural area and this bus was a vital link to connect people from the village into Foxford, Ballina, Castlebar and onwards to Galway for education, work and medical appointments,” he told the Seanad.
While welcoming the continuation of the route under a public service obligation arrangement operated by Citylink, the Mayo senator said it was disappointing that Strade had been omitted from the service.
He called on both Citylink and the National Transport Authority (NTA) to act and ensure the village is once again included on the route.
Senator Duffy also acknowledged the efforts of local campaigners, including Councillors Neil Cruise and Donna Sheridan, as well as community activist Jimmy Mulroy, who has led a petition seeking the restoration of the stop.
“I acknowledge Cllrs Neil Cruise and Donna Sheridan who have raised the matter,” Senator Duffy said. “We will not let up until the route is returned.”
Acting Leader of the Seanad Senator Fiona O’Loughlin backed the campaign and agreed that public transport services are essential for rural communities.
She said it was important that people remained connected to larger towns and the services they provide and encouraged engagement with the NTA, noting that the authority had proven responsive to public transport concerns in the past.
The issue is expected to remain high on the agenda as campaigners continue to press for the reinstatement of Straide on the Ballina-Galway route.