Dedicated bus service to north Louth school will be examined

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Bus Éireann will consider providing a dedicated school bus service for Monksland National School in north Louth, following calls from a local councillor.

Cllr. John Reilly submitted a motion to the January meeting of Louth County Council, highlighting that Bus Éireann currently operates several school bus services to Bush Post Primary School, which is just 700 metres from Monksland National School.

But, despite this proximity, Monksland National School does not have its own school transport link, he explained.

The motion also highlighted ongoing traffic congestion outside Monksland National School during morning drop‑off and afternoon collection times.

"The school is experiencing a chronic shortage of parking, with no available land on the school site for expansion,” the meeting heard.

He suggested that, with cooperation between parents and Bus Éireann, introducing a new school transport route could help reduce congestion and improve safety for pupils, parents, and road users.

Cllr. Reilly said he had received a response from Bus Éireann, indicating that when applications for school transport are received, the company will consider establishing a new transport link serving Monksland National School.

"All existing vehicles operating in the area will be reviewed, and where feasible, used to support a new route.”

The company also stated that eligibility for the School Transport Scheme is determined by Department of Education criteria, which require pupils to live at least 3.2 kilometres from their nearest national school.

Bus Éireann has indicated that families can apply for school transport from early March 2026.

Councillor Reilly said he believes “that this has the potential to ease the traffic congestion on a daily basis at Monksland NS. This is a possible solution.”