Calls to save number 11 bus route

Local Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon has launched a petition to save the Number 11 bus route.

The route is on the chopping block as part of changes to the BusConnects network.

The petition has gathered over 1500 signatures since being launched in mid-October.

“For many of us, the Number 11 bus route is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an essential service that supports countless students, families, and elderly residents who depend on it every day; the proposed cuts to this route threaten to undermine this vital service,” Gannon said.

Under changes by the National Transport Authority, the 4, 11 and 13 routes will be replaced in late November by the E1, E2 and 19 routes.

With residents in Dublin North-West particularly affected by the cuts, general election candidate Rory Hearne noted “while the E1 and E2, serving Ballymun Road, will travel across to the southside of the city, the 19 bus, which runs through Wadelai, will terminate at Parnell Square.”

“Having to change bus here to travel to the southside will be particularly inconvenient for the elderly or those with mobility issues.”

He said that the virtue of the 19 bus serving Dublin Airport is “problematic”, as the bus may well be full by the time it reaches Wadelai and Ballygall.

“This route currently offers dependable transportation for students commuting from the northside to UCD and enables senior citizens to easily reach the southside of the city. Eliminating this service would effectively isolate significant parts of our community.

Hearne called on people to sign the petition, saying that while he and fellow party colleagues are engaging with the NTA on the issue, he has called for the wisdom of the crowd to prevail.

“As well as engaging directly with the NTA on this issue, we have started a petition, which I am urging as many people as possible to sign, to have this ill-judged decision reversed.”

“Public transport must work for local communities; encouraging people not to use their cars is also important for our climate targets.”

“If we want more people to use public transport, it is crucial that local bus services are inclusive and accessible,” he said.