Connecting Ireland Project Updates

Some more Bus Éireann timetable changes on 7th December, including the cancellation of two more once a week routes, routes 483 and 489.

https://buseireann.ie/news/timetable-updates-7dec

Timetable Updates effective 7 December 2025

We wish to advise customers of alterations to the following timetables, which are a result of punctuality improvements and Bus Stop changes effective 7 December 2025.

Southern Region: Punctuality Improvements for 203, 215, 220X

Route 203, Manor Farm to Parklands via St Patrick St: Improved punctuality

Route 215, Mahon Point to Cloghroe via Blarney: Improved punctuality

Route 220x, Ovens to Crosshaven: Improved punctuality

Western Region: Changes to route or bus stop location

Route 303: Serving Pineview to Kilmallock Road via Henry Street: timetable will return to normal operation until further notice

The following timetables will no longer operate effective 7 December

Western Region: Timetable cancellations

Route 483, Ballyshannon to Sligo via Ballintrillick: Route cancelled

Route 489, Strabane to Letterkenny via  Carrigans: Route cancelled

You’re right of course, but let’s not pretend that Bus Éireann have been shining lights in this regard.

It’s only relatively recently that Bus Éireann have taken to listing all the timetable changes on their website - there was a lengthy period where running times on routes were regularly being changed and no notifications were posted. The only way I could find them was to go through all the individual timetable listings. That has now changed with proper notices being posted.

Even still though, Expressway route 51 magically reverted to the old timetable a few months ago, with the extra Galway/Shannon services removed, but there was no notice about that. I’ve no idea exactly when it happened - I just noticed that the old timetable file had been posted.

As for connections being missed - there was the BÉ 236 timetable recast last June, which removed the through afternoon service from Cork to Castletownbere, but which also removed the connection due to a scheduling oversight - that took 3 months to fix.

The latest quarterly bulletin outlines all of the service improvements initiated during 2025.

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Connecting-Ireland-Bulletin-2025-Issue-11.pdf

Some Bus Éireann changes from the 25th of January….

Most of the changes are running time changes, while others are bus stop changes which are catching up with reality on the ground.

Two more once a week routes (routes 378 and 381) in Wexford are being withdrawn and being replaced by Local Link Wexford DRT services.

https://buseireann.ie/news/timetable-updates-25-jan

Timetable Updates effective 25 January 2026

We wish to advise customers of alterations to the following timetables, which are a result of punctuality improvements and Bus Stop changes effective 25 January 2026.

Eastern Region: Punctuality Improvements and Bus Stop changes

• Route NV1: Serving Gainstown - Dunville Rd, a New Stop has been added to the route at 'Navan Centre', 111021. Navan (Abbey Road Stop B), '13846' has replaced stop '13845'
• Route NV2: Serving Gainstown to Clusker Park, a New Stop has been added to the route at 'Navan Centre', 111021. Navan (Abbey Road Stop B), '13846' has replaced stop '13845'
• Route 111X: Serving Dublin to Clonmellon via Delvin: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 115: Serving Dublin to Mullingar via Enfield: Punctuality & Trips removed - From Dublin - 16:10, 16:45, 17:15. From UCD 17:00. From Mullingar - 06:00, 07:00, 22:40, 23:30. These will now be served by new route 115X

Southern Region: Punctuality Improvements and Bus Stop changes

• Route 214: Serving CUH to Glyntown via St. Patrick Street: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 270: Serving Skibbereen to Killarney via Kenmare: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 271: Serving Tralee to Killarney via Kerry Airport: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 272: Serving Tralee to Ballybunion via Listowel: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 275: Serving Tralee to Dingle via Camp: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 279: Serving Tralee to Killorglin via Castlemaine: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 279A: Serving Tralee to Cahersiveen via Killorglin: Punctuality Improvement
• Route 284: Serving Tralee to Killarney via Farranfore: Punctuality improvement

Western Region: Punctuality Improvements and Bus Stop changes

• Route 316: Serving Sixmilebridge to Shannon Airport: Punctuality Improvement & New Stop added to route at 'St Caimins', '603441', serving outbound. This will replace stop '635331', Cronan Gardens
• Route 317: Serving Limerick to Ennis via Cratloe: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 317A: Serving Limerick to Ennis via Cappagh: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 321: Serving Limerick to Newcastle West via Adare: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 323X: Serving Limerick to Birr via Nenagh: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 343: Serving Limerick to Shannon via Bunratty: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 487: Serving Strabane to Letterkenny via Raphoe: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 491: Serving Letterkenny to Ballybofey via Drumkeen: Punctuality Improvements
• Route 494: Serving Strabane to Ballybofey via Castlefin: Punctuality Improvements

Alterations to the following timetables are effective 25 January 2026 and are a result of changes to departure times, route or bus stop location:

Eastern Region: Changes to departure times, route or bus stop location

• Route 115c: Kilcock to Mullingar via Ballivor: Route Realignment 18:00 ex Dublin has been removed from 115 and will be served by 115C
• Route 115X: Dublin to Mullingar via M4: New Timetable trips added from 115
• Route 109D: Dublin Trim to DCU: Two New stops Hollywood, '351751' & ''351761' have been added to route serving in both directions

Western Region: Changes to departure times, route or bus stop location

• Route 314: Limerick to Ballybunion via Foynes: OConnell Ave 608021 & Raheen 607461 have been added to route
• Route 429: Galway to Castlerea via Tuam: Stop relocation - 'Main Street, Ballaghaderreen', '530161' & '141681'. Stops will move to Pound Street.
• Route 451: Ballina to Longford via Charlestown: Stop relocation 'Main Street, Ballaghaderreen', '530161' & '141681'. Stops will move to Pound Street.
• Route 492: Donegal to Dungloe via Glenties: Co-ordinate update at 'Ardara Heritage Centre', 142621
• Route 458: Ballina to Enniskillen via Sligo: Dillons Terrace, Ballina 559721 has been added to route

The following timetables will no longer operate

Eastern Region: Timetable cancellations (Routes 378 & 381)

• Route 378: Wexford to Churchtown via Tacumshane: last date of operation will be Friday 30 January 2026
• Route 381: Wexford to Blackhall via Bridgetown: last date of operation will be Tuesday 27 January 2026

Check out Transport for Ireland for alternative options.

No it means that they revise the intermediate timings along the route to reflect the changing traffic conditions.

In many cases it's just certain departures, and it often just means the intermediate times changing, while the final arrival time stays the same.

Route 450 is getting a change in route alignment on Achill Island from February 22nd, from when it will stick to the main R319 road, rather than taking the very scenic route along very narrow roads via Dooniver and Dugort.

The TFI Anseo service will maintain services in those areas.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/nta-and-bus-eireann-announce-changes-to-route-450-from-22-february/

NTA and Bus Éireann Announce Changes to Route 450 from 22 February

12th February 2026

The National Transport Authority (NTA), in partnership with Bus Éireann, has today announced changes to Route 450 on Achill Island, which will come into effect on Saturday, 22 February.

Reducing journey times and improving service efficiency

The changes are designed to reduce journey times and improve service efficiency while ensuring continued access to public transport through the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Revised Route 450 on R319 road between Keel and Bun an Churraigh

From 22 February, Route 450 will operate on a revised alignment using the R319 road between Keel and Bun an Churraigh. This change is expected to reduce journey times by approximately 15 minutes in each direction, delivering faster and more reliable journeys for passengers travelling to and from Achill Island.

As a result of the revised alignment, the service will no longer serve the existing stops at Dugort and Dún Ibhir.

Dugort and Dún Ibhir serviced by TFI Anseo

Passengers in Dugort and Dún Ibhir will continue to have access to public transport through TFI Anseo, the NTA’s Smart On‑Demand public transport service, which is currently being piloted on Achill Island for a 12‑month period. Customers in Dugort an Dún Ibhir who wish to travel further afield can use TFI Anseo to book a trip to Gob an Choire or Mulranny, from where they can connect onto routes 450, 460a or 460b to Westport, Castlebar or Béal an Mhuirthead.

TFI Anseo Smart Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) service

TFI Anseo is part of the wider TFI Network and operates as a Smart Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) service, offering flexible, bookable journeys to complement scheduled bus services and improve connectivity in rural areas.

Timetables & departure times

The timetable between Bun an Churraigh and Louisburgh will remain unchanged. However, departure and arrival times for Keel and Dooagh will be adjusted to reflect the reduced journey time on the revised route.

Speaking on the changes, John Nott, Head of Public Transport Service Planning at the National Transport Authority (NTA) said: “These changes to Route BE#450 are designed to deliver quicker and more efficient journeys for passengers travelling to and from Achill Island, while ensuring that communities continue to be supported through the TFI Network. The introduction of faster scheduled services alongside the TFI Anseo on‑demand pilot reflects our commitment to improving rural connectivity and offering transport solutions that meet local needs.”

Further information

For more information on the new Route 450 Alignment, please visit buseireann.ie or for passengers looking to use TFI Anseo, please visit TFI Anseo App – Transport for Ireland.

TFI Anseo  is currently operating as a pilot on‑demand public transport service in Mayo.
The pilot is designed to assess how best to meet passenger travel needs, and its outcomes will help inform any future changes to the Route 450 timetable, with the aim of improving journey options and overall service for passengers.

The Mullingar Town bus service launches this coming Sunday, 22nd February.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/youre-such-a-good-looking-bus-service-nta-launches-new-town-bus-service-for-mullingar/

You’re such a good‑looking bus service: NTA launches new town bus service for Mullingar

16th February 2026

Minister, NTA and Westmeath Coco launch new Mullingar town bus service

Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, today joined the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Westmeath County Council to officially launch a new town bus service for Mullingar, significantly enhancing public transport options for the town and surrounding communities.

New routes beginning 22 February

From Sunday, 22 February, two dedicated town bus routes, MU1 and MU2, will commence operation as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network, providing frequent, reliable and accessible services throughout the day and into the late evening.

Improved connectivity across key destinations

Operated by Bernard Kavanagh and Sons, the new services will improve connectivity between key destinations including the town centre, Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar, Saint Mary’s Hospital Campus, Mullingar Business Park, Lough Sheever Corporate Park, Mullingar Train Station, and the wider TFI bus network.

High‑frequency service seven days a week

Each route will operate at a 30‑minute frequency in both directions, seven days a week. A shared central spine between Castle Street and Midland Regional Hospital will see both routes converge, delivering a combined 15‑minute frequency along this key corridor.

Extended operating hours for greater flexibility, including late-night services

The Mullingar Town Bus Services will operate for up to 18 hours a day, providing early morning and late‑night services that support shift workers, students, social and leisure trips, and the continued growth of Mullingar’s evening and night‑time economy.

Late‑night services will improve access to restaurants, entertainment venues, cultural events and evening employment, while offering a safe, affordable and sustainable alternative to private car use.

Cashless payment and fare options

Cashless payment will be available through the Leap Card fare system, including access to the TFI 90‑Minute Fare, which allows free transfers between the two routes. Free Travel Passes will also be accepted on board.

Government commitment to rural and regional mobility

Speaking ahead of the launch, Minister Jerry Buttimer TD said: “This new town bus service for Mullingar is a strong example of the Government’s commitment to improving rural and regional mobility under our wider transport and climate policies. By expanding reliable, frequent and accessible public transport in regional towns, we are ensuring that people can travel safely and affordably for work, education, healthcare and social activities without relying on private cars. Services like this support rural communities, strengthen local economies and play an important role in delivering a more connected, sustainable and inclusive transport network across Ireland.”

Supporting how people live, work and travel locally, connecting communities

Anne Shaw, CEO of the National Transport Authority added:

“Connecting communities and making public transport an easy, everyday choice is at the core of the NTA’s Town Bus Programme. The new Mullingar Town Bus Service is designed to support how people live, work and travel locally, with frequent services, long operating hours and strong links to the wider TFI network. Approximately two‑thirds of Mullingar’s population now live within 400 metres of a town bus stop, with over 90% living within 800 metres, ensuring that most residents have a high‑quality public transport service within walking distance. This level of coverage will help strengthen social inclusion, support local activity and encourage more sustainable travel choices across the town.”

Local leadership welcomes benefits for Mullingar residents

Cllr. Aoife Davitt, Cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council said: “This is a really positive day for Mullingar and for the wider community. The new town bus service will make everyday life that bit easier — whether it’s getting to work, heading to school or college or meeting friends in town.

“Having frequent buses running from early morning through to late evening will give people more choice in how they travel and greater independence, particularly for older residents and young people. It also makes it easier to enjoy everything Mullingar has to offer, from local businesses and sports clubs to restaurants and cultural events.

“We’re delighted to see this level of investment in Mullingar and to work alongside the NTA and Bernard Kavanagh and Sons to deliver a service that will benefit families, businesses and communities across the town for years to come.”

Operator emphasises reliability and community benefit

Bernard Kavanagh, Managing Director from Bernard Kavanagh and Sons Ltd, said: “We’re pleased to operate the new Mullingar Town Bus Service on behalf of the National Transport Authority, in partnership with Westmeath County Council. The MU1 and MU2 routes will provide a frequent, reliable link between homes, workplaces, healthcare services and the rail network — offering a practical alternative to the car.

“Our focus is on delivering a dependable service and a positive experience for passengers. We’d like to thank the NTA team, Westmeath County Council and our own drivers and staff whose work made this possible. We believe this service will make a real difference to mobility and everyday life in Mullingar.”

Mullingar is latest of eleven NTA town bus services

Mullingar is the latest town to benefit from investment under the NTA’s Town Bus Programme. There are now eleven town bus services in operation across Ireland, including Athlone, Balbriggan, Carlow, Clonmel, Drogheda, Dundalk, Kilkenny, Navan, Sligo and Portlaoise, which launched last year to strong passenger demand. Further town services are planned for rollout in 2026 and beyond.

The Mullingar Town Bus Service is funded through the NTA’s Town Bus Programme Allocation for 2025, supporting community‑focused and economically sustainable transport solutions as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

For more information on the Mullingar Town Bus Service, including route maps and timetables, visit Mullingar and other Town Bus services – Network Maps.

Contactless payments are now being taken on services operated by five Local Link areas.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/contactless-card-payments-now-available-on-tfi-local-link-services-in-sligo-and-leitrim/

Contactless card payments now available on TFI Local Link services in Sligo and Leitrim

13th February 2026

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has announced that passengers travelling in Sligo and Leitrim can now pay their fares on TFI Local Link services using contactless card payments.

Simplifying payments for rural and regional passengers

With the introduction of contactless payments, passengers can now use debit and credit cards or mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simplifying the payment process and improving the overall travel experience.

Fifth Local Link office to introduce contactless technology

This latest rollout brings the number of TFI Local Link offices offering contactless card payments to five and follows the proven success of the initial pilot in Cavan and Monaghan, along with subsequent introductions across Tipperary, Mayo, Laois and Offaly.

Contactless payments for single‑journey fares

Contactless payments are available for single‑journey fares. Daily and weekly fare products will continue to be offered through the Leap website and the TFI Leap Top‑Up App. Passengers can also continue to use TFI Leap cards and cash, while Free Travel Cards remain valid on all eligible TFI Local Link services.

Part of a NTA’s pational programme to modernise public transport fare systems

The introduction of contactless payments forms part of the NTA’s ongoing programme to modernise public transport fare systems nationwide, with a strong focus on improving accessibility, ease of use and the passenger experience, particularly in rural and regional communities.

Edmund Betagh, TFI Local Link Programme Manager at the NTA, said: “The rollout of contactless payments across Sligo and Leitrim marks the fifth TFI Local Link office to introduce this technology and represents continued progress in strengthening rural mobility across the country. Building on the success of earlier rollouts, this expansion makes it easier for people in rural and regional areas to access public transport, offering greater flexibility at the point of payment and supporting TFI Local Link’s essential role in connecting communities with employment, education, healthcare and social opportunities.”

TFI Local Link leadership welcomes the upgrade

Fiona O’Shea, General Manager, TFI Local Link Donegal Sligo Leitrim, added:

“We’re delighted to introduce contactless payments on our services across the region. This upgrade reflects our commitment to delivering a modern, customer‑focused transport service that meets the everyday needs of our communities. By making it quicker and more convenient to pay, we’re helping more people choose public transport for their local journeys.”

Find out more information on TFI Local Link services in Sligo and Leitrim.