Positive reaction to Local Link briefing at Sligo meeting as new rural connections welcomed

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Following the attendance of representatives of Local Link at the recent meeting of Sligo-Drumcliffe Municipal District Meeting, Cllr Edel McSharry has welcomed an update regarding the extension of the Route 982 service.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr McSharry said, “Local Link continues to be one of the best initiatives we have introduced to connect our rural communities. The level of usage and appreciation for these services demonstrates their vital role in tackling rural isolation and improving access to education, work, and healthcare.”

During the meeting, Cllr McSharry renewed her call for the extension of Route 982 to include an additional stop at Lisnalurg/Teesan Crossroads, an area currently without access to public transport. A recent local residents’ survey—completed by 120 respondents—showed that 97% of people said they would use the service if the extension was introduced.

In response to ongoing advocacy, Local Link confirmed the introduction of the Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) services for two areas:

Teesan, Lisnalurg and Carncash area – Service to Sligo Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, departing around 10.20 a.m. and returning from Wine Street car park at 1.30 p.m.

Calry area – Service to Sligo Town on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, also departing at 10.20 a.m. and returning from Wine Street car park at 1.30 p.m.

All Demand Response Services must be pre-booked by phoning Local Link on (074) 9741644 before 5 pm on the day prior to travel.

Cllr McSharry added, “This is a very positive step forward. These new services for Teesan and Calry areas are a direct result of strong local advocacy and community engagement. However, we must continue to work towards a more comprehensive transport network and increasing usage so that every part of our municipal district has equitable access to public transport.”

The Council also discussed winter gritting on the bus routes local road in Ransboro and Maugherow, to ensure Local Link services can continue its service during icy conditions. This will be further explored by council engineers to identify feasible solutions.

Cllr McSharry concluded, “While Local Link operates under financial and operational constraints, the commitment of their team to rural connectivity is clear. We will continue to collaborate closely with them to identify gaps, explore funding opportunities, and expand services to meet the needs of our communities.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.