Meath commuters ‘left behind’ as accessing reliable transport remains ‘a battle-a-day’
The Navan rail line, a proposed Bettystown train station, parking at Laytown station, improved bus links, and bus delays were among the issues discussed at a recent meeting between Sinn Féin representatives from Meath and officials from the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The meeting, held at Leinster House, covered a list of “deficits and required interventions” across all modes of public and active travel.
Speaking after the discussions, Deputy Darren O'Rourke said: "We presented a clear picture of a county whose transport infrastructure is failing to keep pace with demand. From the lack of basic bus services in some areas to the long-awaited rail projects, commuters in Meath are being left behind."
The delegation raised progress on the Navan rail line, a feasibility study for a Bettystown train station, parking solutions at Laytown, enhanced bus connections to M3 Parkway, and clarity on the timelines for Dart+ North and Dart+ West projects affecting Meath.
Deputy O'Rourke and other representatives highlighted “systemic failures” on routes 103 to 109, the Navan Town service, and the absence of any service in areas such as Bellewstown. They said services are "utterly inadequate for current demand and population growth" and cited capacity issues and frequent cancellations that require urgent attention.
While welcoming investment in Active Travel, the delegation expressed frustration over the pace of delivery, “disruptions” caused by ongoing works, and “problematic” designs in certain locations, including overly narrow roads and damage to verges.
They also flagged multiple sites across the county lacking proper bus stops and shelters, leaving passengers exposed while waiting.
"For our constituents, accessing reliable transport is a battle-a-day," Deputy O'Rourke said.
“While we are under no illusion that one meeting will instantly resolve these deep-seated problems, we will continue to be a persistent voice for change. I want to thank the NTA for meeting with us. They heard, loud and clear, the daily challenges faced by Meath commuters."
He added: “We left the meeting with a commitment to keep pushing. Sinn Féin in Meath will continue to hold the NTA and the Government to account, demanding the reliable, integrated, and expanding public transport network that the people of this county deserve and have paid for."