Bus Éireann Shortage Forces Ballitore Children Into Long, Dangerous Walks

Thursday, 28 August 2025 11:23

By Martin Osborne

Bus Éireann had already issued tickets but confirmed by email on 21 August that it could not provide transport, citing a lack of drivers and contractors despite repeated efforts.

Up to 30 families in Ballitore have been told by Bus Éireann that no bus or driver is available to bring children to St Laurence’s NS in Crookstown.

Parents say the short notice leaves them without alternatives, as there are no local bus services, taxis, or safe walking routes.

Bus Éireann had already issued tickets but confirmed by email on 21 August that it could not provide transport, citing a lack of drivers and contractors despite repeated efforts.

Families will instead be offered an “Exceptional No Service Interim Grant” to cover the cost of making their own arrangements, though details remain unclear.

Parent Lyndsey Delaney told Kfm that the company knew this was coming, as the regular driver retired earlier in the year.

She said it seems to be a "constant battle" to get a bus for children in the area.

She said her two children now have to walk 2 and a half kilometres to school and that the roads are "narrow and dangerous".

Kfm has contacted Bus Eireann and The Department of Education for comment.

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