
While the 33-seater bus usually provides enough space, residents say the smaller 16 or 20-seater vehicles are regularly used instead - leaving people behind when the service reaches Caragh, particularly during peak hours.
A local mother from the Caragh area has spoken out about the ongoing issues with the TFI Local Link 821 bus service, which she says is failing to meet the needs of her son and others in the community.
Her son, who requires extra support with daily activities, relies on the bus to get to work and depends on the structure of a consistent morning routine.
However, due to the frequent use of a smaller vehicle on the route, he is often left behind when the bus reaches full capacity before arriving in Caragh Village at its scheduled 8:06 a.m. stop.
His mother said routine is really important for him.
He works now and he likes his own independence and he likes to be on time for work. If the routine is broken he gets very upset and stressed," she said.
While the 33-seater bus usually provides enough space, residents say the smaller 16 or 20-seater vehicles are regularly used instead - leaving people behind when the service reaches Caragh, particularly during peak hours.
She described the situation as “not good enough” and called on Local Link and TFI to provide a consistent, reliable service.
Kfm has contacted TFI for comment.
Speaking on Kildare Today, Sarah, who works as a carer for the family, explained the impacts.
She said that while it is a "fantastic" service, it was designed to help vulnerable people and those experiencing rural isolation.