Transport authority to probe Kildare bus service cuts

THE NATIONAL Transport Authority is investigating the recent decision by JJ Kavanagh & Sons to remove several stops on the 717 bus route which has sparked concern among commuters and local representatives in County Kildare.

The news came in light of representation by cllr Chris Pender of the Social Democrats who wrote to the NTA requesting urgent action to address the impact of the service changes on commuters in Athy and Kilcullen.

In his letter he highlighted the growing disruption caused by the removal of key stops, stating that many residents rely on these services for their daily commutes.

He expressed fears that the changes could force people to revert to private car use, exacerbating traffic congestion and undermining environmental sustainability efforts.

“This change is creating a significant gap for commuters in these areas,” wrote cllr Pender. “Our community deserves a transport system that is both accessible and sustainable.” The NTA has since responded, acknowledging the concerns raised and confirming that it is currently assessing the broader implications of the route alterations.

In a formal reply to cllr Pender, the Authority stated: “Further to the recent decision by JJ Kavanagh & Sons to remove several stops on the 717 route, the Authority is now determining what the impact of this is and whether any intervention measures are needed by the Authority. We expect to be in a position to publish this determination in the near future.” 

While the NTA has not yet announced any concrete measures, the assurance that a determination will be published soon offers a glimmer of hope for affected communities.