Posted online: Jul 21st, 2010

By Lauren Harte
reporter

Bus Eireann has been forced to re-instate a connection route until the end of next month, despite low passenger numbers, following local opposition to planned cutbacks.
The decision follows concerns raised after the Dublin evening service to South and West Donegal was withdrawn two weeks ago, leaving those travelling on to Glencolmcille and Dungloe stranded. The route was cut by five days from a daily service to just two days per week.
Bus Eireann said the service reduction was due to very low passenger numbers but added it would continue to operate on Fridays and Sundays.
In a statement to the Donegal Post, Bus Eireann says the 21.20 Donegal Town to Dungloe service will now continue to operate daily until August 31 pending discussions with local councilors and community groups. However, after this date, it will operate on Thursday, Fridays and Sundays only.
“In order to provide a better level of service to west Donegal, Bus Eireann has recently re-structured a number of services in the region,” a spokesman said.
“This has seen an increase in the number of services to Glencolmcille, Ardara, and Glenties from Donegal Town in the mid-morning from three days a week to six days a week.
“Due to very low passenger numbers – as low as four passengers per trip – over the last number of years that had made the service unviable, Bus Eireann has also re-organised the 21.20 departure
from Donegal Town to Dungloe.”
In addition, the operator says there is now a daily service from Donegal Town to Dungloe at 17.30, which they believe is a more attractive time for customers travelling to west Donegal.
John Campbell, Secretary of Kilcar Parish Council has welcomed the news but said members will be lobbying on behalf of people in the area.
“It’s fabulous news but we’ve got to ensure that when the review comes up at the end of August that we get a favourable review for people in the area.”