Extension of TFI Anseo Pilot Scheme for Achill
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has confirmed that he has received confirmation from Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien, and from The National Transport Authority (NTA), that the TFI Anseo pilot service in Achill is to be extended, enabling the innovative demand-responsive transport service to continue connecting people with the places and services that matter most to them.
The announcement comes one year after the launch of the first of three TFI Anseo pilot services in Achill. Operated under the TFI Local Link network, the three pilot schemes have provided valuable insights into how demand-responsive transport can improve mobility in rural communities. With all three pilots operating within budget, the NTA is extending the Achill service to continue building on its success and learning. A final report from each of the pilots is expected in December 2026.
Minister Calleary said: “I’m delighted to confirm this extension today with news from my colleague, Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien. I launched the scheme in Achill in July last year and I have seen firsthand the success of the pilot since then.
“The people in Achill, Currane and Mulranny have really embraced this service, and it is used by every cohort of the community, young and old. However, I do want to emphasise that this is still a pilot scheme, so it is vitally important that the local people continue to use it, and that new people sign up too. There will be a final report on its usage prepared in December and that will determine if this becomes a permanent fixture, which I will be strongly advocating for.
“Investment in rural transport is a key priority for me, for Minster O’Brien and for this government and we will continue to make record investments to improve the offerings to people in rural Ireland.”
Since its launch last year, the Achill service has supported over 11,000 passenger journeys, helping residents access employment, education, healthcare, retail and social opportunities through a flexible, app-based and phone-booking transport service.
Sarah Togher, General Manager, TFI Local Link Mayo, said: “We are delighted that the TFI Anseo pilot in Achill is continuing, building on the positive impact the service has had since its launch last year. For many people in rural and island communities, access to reliable transport is essential for maintaining independence and staying connected to work, education, healthcare and social activities.
“The pilot has shown how demand-responsive transport can provide a flexible solution to local travel needs, and the feedback from passengers has been extremely encouraging. Continuing the service gives us the opportunity to further develop and refine the model, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of the community while helping to shape the future of rural public transport across Ireland.”
Achill-based Fianna Fáil Councillor, Paul McNamara, also welcomed the announcement: “I am thrilled to hear this news today from Minister Calleary. I joined with him this time last year to launch this service and it is incredible the way in which the people of Achill and Currane have embraced it, and it is vital that this service remains in place after December.
“Achill is hive of activity at the moment and anyone visiting the Island over the past number of weeks will see why it is so important to continue to invest in rural transport.”