Bus Eireann unviels its €50m “fleet of the future”
Bus Eireann has unveiled its new €50m “fleet of the future” in Dublin, which comprises of 116 new vehicles. The new buses boast extra legroom, power sockets (on commuter coaches), wifi, monitors with real time information, are wheelchair accessible and have lower fuel emmissions.
Some of the fleet will soon enter service in Cork, Limerick and Galway while others have recently went into operation on commuter services in the Greater Dublin Area.
Speaking at the launch of the new fleet minister for transport, Paschal Donohoe said: “As the economy continues to grow, there is a greater transport demand generally.
“Ensuring that public transport is an attractive option is central to encouraging people to leave the car at home. The upgrading of the Bus Éireann fleet in this way, adds to this,” the minister said.
According to Bus Eireann passenger journey numbers increased last year. It says that passenger numbers in regional cities were up almost 4pc last year, which are operated in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.
Chief executive of Bus Eireann, Martin Nolan, said that funding from the National Transport Authority (NTA) was a progressive and necessary step.
“We continue to work together with the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to make our bus and coach services the most accessible and economical option for travel.”
“Our 2015 passenger figures augur well for renewed economic growth in the regions, which like Dublin, must be supported with a public transport infrastructure which is modern and best in class.
“There is a return to congestion, and with growing demand for our services in regional cities – further priority measures for public transport remain a key aim for 2016,” Nolan added.
