Bus Eireann is set to introduce accessible buses on the Expressway Derry to Galway route this summer.
Previously, passengers with disabilities were unable to use route 64 due to a lack of accessible vehicles and stops.
Donegal Fine Gael Councillor Jimmy Kavanagh has welcomed a commitment from the Head of Expressway, Andrew Yates, that the changes are on the way with a target launch of July 1, 2024.
Speaking following a meeting with operators last week, Cllr. Kavanagh said: “At the moment there is not an accessible bus available on this route, and callers with queries are simply told it is not an accessible route.
“This is totally unsatisfactory given that many people need to travel for health care services to both Sligo and Galway from Letterkenny.
“I pointed out to the meeting that although there are stops on the route that may not be accessible the stops at Letterkenny, Sligo and Galway are accessible, so there is no reason not to provide an accessible bus on that basis, and that the other stops can be reviewed and made accessible as soon as possible, I don’t think that much modification, if any, would be needed at Ballybofey or Ballyshannon for example to make those stops accessible.”
In response, Cllr Kavanagh said that Expressway acknowledged these points and agreed to implement the accessible service while reviewing the remaining stops for future upgrades.
Cllr Kavanagh added: “I would like to thank Bus Eireann for their positive response and I look forward to this important service being made available in the coming months and I have no doubt it will be an important change for those who need it.”
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