Uncertainty over Mayo bus route as public review begins
Minister Dara Calleary pushes for retention of Route 52 between Ballina and Galway amid widespread concern
Concerns are growing across Mayo following confirmation that a key regional bus service Route 52 may be discontinued.
Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, has confirmed that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has begun a Public Service Obligation (PSO) determination process after Bus Éireann announced plans to cease its Route 52 Expressway service between Ballina and Galway.
The announcement has been met with strong reaction locally, with fears over the loss of a vital transport link connecting Mayo to the west’s largest city.
Minister Calleary said he has been in contact with both the NTA and the Minister for Transport since the news emerged, stressing the importance of maintaining the service.
“The intention to cease the Route 52 service has been met with widespread disappointment by constituents in Ballina and across Mayo,” he said.
The PSO process is triggered when a commercial transport operator withdraws a route, allowing the NTA to assess whether the service should continue with State support due to its importance to the public.
Minister Calleary said he has formally written to both the NTA and the Department of Transport, strongly advocating for the route to be retained.
“In light of ongoing fuel price increases, and the necessity of this service for hospital appointments, students travelling to college and general connectivity, it is vital that Route 52 is maintained,” he said.
The route has long been seen as a key transport artery for the region, providing access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities.
While the outcome of the review process has yet to be determined, the Minister expressed hope that a positive decision can be reached in the coming days.
The potential loss of the service has renewed debate around rural transport links and the need for sustained investment in connectivity across the west of Ireland.