Bus Éireann bid for tendered routes unsuccessful but focus remains on growth for the future

Bus Éireann chief executive Ray Hernan today expressed his disappointment at the news that the company was unsuccessful in tendering for several routes on the Kildare-Dublin corridor as the incumbent service provider.

Having successfully won a competitive tender to operate Waterford City routes under a new NTA (National Transport Authority) contract last November, there was some anticipation that the company could retain the routes. Today it was announced that these were awarded to Go Ahead. Mr Hernan said that while such news was difficult for staff and management, there is much to remain optimistic about and that the 'public transport growth agenda' will open up new opportunities to expand services on other corridors.

"While today's news is disappointing for everyone at the company, I believe we must now focus on delivering even higher standards of service on the 240 routes we continue to serve, to ensure we protect and grow our position for the future. While it has been a challenging year with significant change for all of our staff, this news indicates that while it was heartening to win our first competitive tender last November against four other bidders - we must now strive to be even more competitive, not just on cost, but on the quality of our service delivery.

“Over the past few months, we have implemented the final phase of our driver work practice change and we are significantly restructuring our business and strengthening our management team to focus on improved service delivery - which is our number one priority. Our business transformation measures are critical to securing our future and we will not relent on ensuring that the company is even better positioned to win business in the future, particularly as the use of public transport is on the rise,” he said.

Mr Hernan highlighted that the company will continue to work with the NTA to enhance services on other routes which are poised for expansion, particularly since many fares were significantly reduced as a passenger incentive only last December.

"We are very much focused on the future where there is much opportunity and potential for growth. I wish Go-ahead well in their endeavours and we in Bus Éireann now look forward to working with all stakeholders, including the NTA to continue the growth of public transport" Mr. Hernan concluded.  

Friday, 16th March, 2018