Dublin Bus Must Live Up to its Public Service Obligation in North Wicklow

Posted January 27th, 2012 in Greystones, Kilcoole, Transport

Wicklow Fine Gael TD Simon Harris has stated his opposition to efforts by Dublin Bus to alter bus services in north county Wicklow, most particularly the worrying information circulating that the 84 bus service will be curtailed.


Speaking on this issue, Deputy Harris said, “Dublin Bus receives taxpayer money, in return for this, it has a public service obligation to meet the transport needs of people in north Wicklow. Even in these difficult economic times when cutbacks have been experienced across the public service, Dublin Bus was authorised to increase fares to ensure that it could continue to meet the needs of the travelling public. These fare increases were difficult for customers but people tolerated them on the basis that services would continue to be provided.”


“I am always willing to engage with any discussion about reforming or improving bus routes, but I find it completely unacceptable that the public and indeed me as a public representative have to hear of any proposed changes by way of leaks and rumours.”

“I have written to the Chief Executive of Dublin Bus outlining the importance of the 84 bus route servicing UCD. In addition to this, I will also be contacting the National Transport Authority to urge them not to grant any request by Dublin Bus to curtail the 84 bus service at any location other than UCD. So many students from north county Wicklow rely on this bus route to get to college and the fact that students begin and end lectures at different times throughout the day requires the flexibility in terms of travelling that the 84 provides”.

“I believe that Dublin Bus will be attending a meeting of Greystones Town Council to brief local councillors on any planned changes and to ascertain their views. I have no doubt that our councillors will ensure that Dublin Bus fully appreciates the importance of the 84 service to Greystones, Kilcoole and the wider area. For my part, I have also sought a direct meeting with Dublin Bus at which I will outline to the company very clearly the need to take heed of the community’s requirements and the absolute importance of consulting with bus users. At this meeting, I will also be seeking information on any planned changes to bus routes in Bray and will again be urging Dublin Bus to live up to its public service obligation.”

“Taxpayers money coupled with fare increases deserve to be matched by Dublin Bus with a service that suits the needs of commuters in north Wicklow.”