Ministers for Transport to allow Blood Bikes to use bus lanes

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, and Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, have today granted approval in principle to permit Blood Bikes Medical Transport to use the bus lane network while carrying out their vital services.

Blood Bike groups use vehicles to rapidly transport medical and clinical items to and from healthcare facilities. This voluntary service reduces demand on alternative transport methods such as ambulances or private operators.

Road traffic regulations do not currently permit the use of bus lanes by Blood Bikes, and there is a possibility of being stopped or fined for doing so. Today’s decision is the first step towards permitting Blood Bikes to use the bus lane network, enabling them to bypass traffic congestion and reduce transit times for collections and deliveries.

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, said:

“Blood Bikes Medical Transport volunteers provide a crucial health service, and this decision acknowledges the importance of their work to our society. Every day, Blood Bike volunteers transport vital medical supplies between hospitals and patients across the country quickly and efficiently.

I met with Blood Bike volunteers Michael Noonan and Fergus Lennon in July of this year to hear about the incredible service they carry out. They are among the 140 dedicated volunteers who give their time, free of charge, to ensure the service is both efficient and dependable. Your sacrifice is very much appreciated.

I am pleased to be able to announce approval in principle to permit Blood Bikes Medical Transport to use the bus lane network while carrying out their vital services.”

Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, said:

“I welcome today’s decision to approve in principle to allow access for Blood Bikes to bus lanes. Blood Bikes provide an indispensable support service to our health service.

Blood Bike volunteers respond to almost 6,000 calls each year and their work contributes to the health and wellbeing of countless patients and their families. They also bring huge benefit to staff in our hospitals, medical centres, nursing homes and other healthcare settings. I too would like to take this opportunity to thank the Blood Bike volunteers for the work they do, free of charge, with great professionalism and unwavering dedication. I had the privilege of meeting some of the volunteers in Galway earlier this year and I am delighted to be able to assist in this very important work.”

The Department of Transport works in close cooperation with the Road Safety Authority (RSA), An Garda Síochána, National Transport Authority (NTA), Dublin Bus and others to ensure the safety of all road users. As such, the Department of Transport intends to seek the views of key stakeholders prior to the final implementation of the extension of bus lane access to Blood Bikes Medical Transport.