Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)

I first should clarify that both the 30 and X30 bus services are part of Expressway, a commercial branch of Bus Éireann. Expressway services receive no State subvention, and decisions regarding service enhancements are based on commercial viability. The National Transport Authority is responsible for the licensing of public bus passenger services under the provisions of the Public Transport Regulation Act 2009, and neither I nor my Department have a role in this process.

Bus Éireann fully acknowledges the concerns raised regarding the efficiency and reliability of both the 30 and X30 Expressway services connecting Cavan and Dublin Airport. At the beginning of this year, the company conducted a review of the route, based on customer feedback and punctuality data, and subsequently in February 2024 applied to the NTA to introduce an improved timetable to better align with the needs of customers and the communities along the route.

Due to the unique nature of the Cavan to Dublin Airport route, which traverses the Border, the timelines for consideration of such applications are extended. This is primarily because of the necessary considerations and approvals required from both the NTA and the relevant authorities in Northern Ireland, and engagement with relevant local authorities. I can confirm that the NTA approved Bus Éireann’s request for a licence amendment on 7 October 2024. However, during the application process, local authorities required some alterations to the original timetable proposal, which will add some time to the implementation of the changes.

I understand that Bus Éireann is on track to roll out the new, improved timetable, which will increase the frequency of services at certain stops along route 30, in the coming months. Additionally, Bus Éireann have made adjustments to create a more realistic and dynamic timetable, which the company believes will benefit customers.

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