"We need to box clever" - calls for Mayo TFI Anseo to be expanded

Westport TD Keira Keogh has highlighted ongoing gaps in public transport connectivity across Mayo, despite significant funding increases and new initiatives in the county.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Keogh called for TFI Anseo to be expanded into Erris and Westport.

The Fine Gael Deputy emphasised that while investment in rural transport has grown substantially, many communities still face significant challenges accessing essential services.

"When we look at the map of Local Link in Mayo, it looks like we are really connected," Deputy Keogh said, before illustrating the practical difficulties faced by residents. She cited the example of a woman in her 60s from Fahy outside Westport who has just one transport option per week – a Friday service that leaves her with over three hours in town between arrival and departure.

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"She has one option to go to Westport on a Friday morning at 12.10pm, but she has three hours and 20 minutes in town before she has to be back on the bus for 3.30pm," the Mayo TD explained.

Minister of State Jerry Buttimer acknowledged the challenges while highlighting recent achievements. He noted that funding for Mayo's rural transport increased by 56 percent between 2023 and 2024 to more than €2 million, with passenger numbers growing by 72 percent.

"We have seen funding increase by 56 percent between 2023 and 2024, with passenger numbers increasing by 72 percent," Minister Buttimer stated, adding that there is now €31 million ring-fenced nationally for rural transport, representing a 38 percent increase on the previous year.

The Minister pointed to recent innovations, including the launch of Ireland's first smart demand responsive transport service, TFI Anseo, in Achill last July. The service has since been expanded, with operating hours extended from 7am to 8pm in October 2025.

Deputy Keogh welcomed these developments but called for the model to be expanded to other areas. "With TFI Anseo doing so well, it would be great to see that expanded into Erris and Westport so that people do not necessarily have to plan ahead," she said.

She also highlighted infrastructure challenges, noting that areas like Knockrooskey lack basic amenities such as footpaths and lighting, preventing the installation of additional bus stops despite buses passing through the area.

"We need to box clever when we are looking at it," Deputy Keogh argued, calling for a more flexible and adaptive approach to meeting constituents' needs.

Minister Buttimer agreed with the need for a coordinated strategy. "It is about that joined-up approach in terms of the local authority with footpaths, the NTA and Bus Éireann," he said, committing to work with Deputy Keogh to address the gaps in service provision.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming the Government's commitment to enhancing Local Link services, describing Deputy Keogh as "a champion" for rural transport in Mayo.