Press Release – For Immediate Release
Issued by the Galway Commuter Coalition
The Galway Commuter Coalition is deeply disappointed to discover that the timeline for Galway’s long-awaited new bus network - featuring improved routes, higher frequency services and a redesigned timetable - has been pushed back yet again.
The original commitment from the NTA indicated a 2025/2026 commencement date. However, following a Parliamentary Question by Roderic O’Gorman TD, the NTA have now confirmed: “The new bus network in Galway city is currently scheduled to commence implementation in 2027/2028, subject to operational readiness and confirmation of funding”.
This is a major and unacceptable delay at a time when existing bus services are oversubscribed and the city is choking on its own congestion.
It is therefore absolutely vital that increased bus frequency and reliability in Galway are implemented as soon as possible. Funding must be made available immediately.
The consequences of inaction are clear:
- More cars on the road
- Longer commute times
- Increased congestion and emissions
- Continued lack of viable transport choice for workers, students, families and visitors.
The success and reliability of the network redesign is further dependent on construction of Galway’s two Bus Connects Corridors which are now through planning and must be progressed to the greatest of the Government’s ability.
The Galway Commuter Coalition is calling on the Government and the Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien to:
- Fully fund the BusConnects Galway network; and
- Commit to a firm and reliable delivery timeline.
The delay of this vital service improvement is a terrible shame, and the Galway Commuter Coalition is calling for citizens of the city and the region to reach out to their TDs, and the Minister for Transport to encourage them to help get Galway moving.
Our city cannot grow while essential travel upgrades are repeatedly deferred and deprioritised. Galway can’t wait, we all have places to be.
Details of the delayed network plans can be viewed here: https://galwaynewnetwork.s3.amazonaws.com/index.html
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Contacts
For further information please contact:
Lochlann Gallagher
Chairperson,
Galway Commuter Coalition
083 183 9112