'Bloody hell' - local bus users slam 'dreadful' decision to cancel Kilkenny route

Bus Éireann have announced that a number of its Expressway services (including one relied on by many in Kilkenny) will be withdrawn from Sunday, 24 May 2026, citing ongoing financial losses on the affected routes.

The company confirmed it has notified both the National Transport Authority (NTA) and customers of its decision to discontinue the following services:

Waterford – Dublin/Dublin Airport (Route 4)
Ballina – Galway (Route 52)
Rosslare/Wexford – Waterford (Route 40 segment)

The Waterford–Dublin/Dublin Airport route is particularly significant for communities across Kilkenny, as it serves several local stops including Mullinavat, Ballyhale, Thomastown, Gowran and Royal Oak.

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In response, Kilkenny Live readers have shared their concern, disappointment and anger at the development.

"This is madness. So many people will be lost without this service," one person wrote.

Another added, "This is shocking. I get this bus regularly from Thomastown. Now what!!!!!"

One regular user described the news as "dreadful", while another reader argued the service is 'essential.

"Decisions like this completely overlook rural communities and people with additional needs. There has to be more consideration for those who depend on public transport as a lifeline, not a luxury."

"Bloody hell. We'll all be carpooling to go every bloody where the way its going," another reader said in a comment.

RESPONSE FROM THE COMPANY - Bus Éireann stated that Expressway operates as a commercial service and does not receive any State funding.

The withdrawal of these routes comes in response to what the company described as “continuous significant losses,” making the services financially unsustainable.

While acknowledging that the decision will be disappointing for passengers, the company said the move is part of a broader effort to consolidate the Expressway network and protect its overall viability.

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Despite the service reductions, Bus Éireann confirmed there will be no impact on jobs due to existing recruitment needs across the organisation.

Customers who have already pre-booked journeys on any of the affected routes will be contacted directly and will receive full refunds.

More reaction to follow...

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