Call for more direct buses from Meath towns to Dublin as NTA review under way
A Sinn Féin TD for Meath East has welcomed a commitment from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to review bus services for Ratoath and Ashbourne — but insists the process should lead to more direct routes between the two towns and Dublin city.
Darren O’Rourke TD raised the issue directly with NTA representatives at the Oireachtas Transport Committee highlighting ongoing frustration among local commuters.
"While I acknowledge some recent improvements to services connecting with the M3 Parkway, the current experience for bus users in Ratoath and Ashbourne is deeply frustrating,” he said.
“Commuters are forced to contend with frequent cancellations, inadequate replacement buses and congestion-related issues that often cause significant delays. In some cases, these delays result in Ashbourne being bypassed entirely.”
Deputy O’Rourke said that strong population growth in both towns makes it “essential” for improved transport links.
"The population in Ratoath and Ashbourne has seen a very significant increase in recent years and this looks set to continue.”
“The geography, from Ratoath via the Ninemilestone Roundabout, lends itself perfectly to more direct services. A greater mix of direct and indirect services would resolve many of the persistent problems commuters face daily and provide the efficient, reliable public transport a growing population deserves. It is essential that this happens.”
While welcoming the NTA’s review, the Meath East TD said it must deliver “meaningful” outcomes.
“A review alone is not enough,” he added.
“It must be a meaningful exercise that looks at the real-life scenarios playing out on our roads every day. The NTA must move beyond understanding the problem and begin implementing the solution.”
"The current model is not working for the people of Ratoath and Ashbourne. We have the population demand, and we need a service that matches it.
“The outcome of this review must be the delivery of more direct bus services from Ratoath and Ashbourne to Dublin city.”