Late Mayo train service gets the green light from NTA

THE National Transport Authority (NTA) has formally approved a new train service from Dublin to Mayo.

From December 10, a late train service departing Dublin Heuston at 7.35pm and arriving in Westport at 10.53pm and Ballina 11.00om will be available to rail travellers.

The service will run six days a week and has long been called for by various public representatives.

Mayo TD Alan Dillon said he was ‘delighted’ that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has given the green light to the new service.

The new train service will make stops at various stations, including Ballyhaunis at 10.01pm, Claremorris at 10.16pm, Castlebar at 10.36pm, Westport at 10.53pm, Foxford at 10.47pm, and Ballina at 11.00pm.

A total of 545,000 journeys were made on the Dublin-Westport line last year, with punctuality in excess of 93 percent.

“Many Mayo rail commuters have recently reached out to express their frustration with being unable to book rail tickets for journeys starting on December 10th and beyond. I’ve been informed that this issue stems from Irish Rail’s efforts to update their website with the upcoming timetable, which is set to go live shortly, just in time for the Christmas rush,” stated Deputy Dillon, who is a member of the Oireachtas Transport Committee.

The Fine Gael TD said he anticipated a meeting with Irish Rail CEO Jim Meade regarding the reintroduction of the trolley train catering service that was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“These additional services from Heuston to Westport and connections to Ballina represent positive strides toward improving the region’s transportation network. These new routes will significantly benefit our Mayo constituents, enhancing mobility and potentially stimulating local tourism and businesses,” added Deputy Dillon.