Editorial: Kilkenny communities are right to feel abandoned by more public transport cuts
From this week’s Kilkenny People
The Government and the National Transport Authority (NTA) need to go back to the drawing board and engage with affected communities who are feeling abandoned by the looming cessation of the Waterford to Dublin bus route.
As it stands, Expressway Route 4, which operates between Waterford and Dublin Airport, will cease operating this Sunday, May 24. The National Transport Authority has indicated a new Public Service Obligation (PSO) route is planned between Waterford and Carlow only, with passengers then expected to make their own onward arrangements to Dublin. This is not good enough.
People rely on the direct route to access Dublin City, Dublin Airport, hospitals, education and employment. South Kilkenny communities will be hit hard – people from places like Thomastown, Mullinavat, Inistioge and Gowran.
What consideration has been given to older people, to those who may not be able to navigate the internet or those living with physical, intellectual or other disabilities? What about the workers and students who need a direct bus to and from both Dublin City and the capital’s airport?
The communities affected say there has not been any formal public consultation opportunity offered by the National Transport Authority as part of due process for determining the PSO. They are now asking that the NTA executive and Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien accept a submission on behalf of concerned residents, businesses, tourist accommodations and amenities. They have also included a petition with several thousand signatures, indicating strong opposition to the route cessation.
Let’s be clear: It is farcical that the Government talks about climate responsibilities and encouraging public transport, while at the same time bus routes are cut, and rail services left overcrowded and under-funded. This route cut will simply add more cars to our roads, will see people will lose jobs, miss hospital appointments, or be unable to visit their friends and family.
It is high time the NTA and Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien listen to what these communities are saying, and engage with them to come up with an appropriate solution for all.