New Mayo-Dublin express bus route described as 'a win for commuters'

A significant development in transportation has been welcomed by a Mayo TD as a new bus route connecting Mayo to both Dublin city and airport is set to roll out next month.

Deputy Alan Dillon announced that the newly introduced route would be managed by the combined efforts of Citylink/GoBus, with a promotional fare of a mere €5 for a one-way trip.

Launching on September 25, Deputy Dillon highlighted that the new route will 'seamlessly connect' Castlebar, Claremorris, Tuam, Athlone, Dublin city and Dublin airport.

“For those who like to get a jump on planning,” he said, “bookings for the 721 route begin on September 1, with further timetable details being released at that time.”

Deputy Dillon, a member of the Oireachtas Transport Committee, has been calling for a major overhaul of public transportation between Mayo and Dublin, with a special focus on an express link to the capital city and Dublin airport.

“Earlier this year, I tabled a debate in the Dail to highlight the inadequacy of the current inter-regional bus services, with no direct link from towns like Westport, Castlebar or Claremorris to Dublin city or Aairport. The existing Expressway bus from Ballina (Route 22) catered only to certain regions of east Mayo. The launch of this new service signifies a major leap forward in bolstering the link between Mayo and Dublin,” underscored Deputy Dillon

“My determination and advocacy with the National Transport Authority (NTA) stressed the need for high frequent services to bridge Mayo with Dublin, keeping in mind growing demands for commuters, especially for students and tourists.

“It brings great satisfaction to note that the NTA heeded my concerns and is gearing up for this high-frequency luxury coach service next month to meet the needs of the Mayo people, which will also have a positive impact on tourism in the county.”