92% of bus drivers witness illegal parking at bus stops on a daily basis

92% of bus drivers witness illegal parking at bus stops on a daily basis, and it is the elderly and passengers with disabilities that suffer the consequences


92% of bus drivers witness illegal parking at bus stops on a daily basis, and it is the elderly and passengers with disabilities that suffer the consequences


  • Illegal parking at bus stops causes delays and makes it very difficult for passengers to embark / disembark the bus

  • The most impacted passengers are those with mobility issues (42%), the elderly (30%) and passengers with small children and / or buggies and prams

  • Bus Éireann’s ‘Keep it Clear’ campaign is a public awareness campaign designed to discourage motorists from illegal parking

  • Motorists who park illegally at bus stops are liable for an €80 fixed-charge penalty fine 

92% of bus drivers witness illegal parking at bus stops on a daily basis, according to a new driver survey published by Bus Éireann. The survey was launched as part of Bus Éireann’s Keep it Clear campaign, a campaign designed to raise awareness among drivers about the impact of blocking bus stops and to remind them to think of those people who are impacted most. 

The elderly and those with mobility issues most affected

Illegal parking is a serious issue for those using public transport. 11% of bus drivers cited illegal parking as a cause for delays and 71% said it caused major issues for passengers looking to embark or disembark buses. 

According to bus drivers, some of the worst affected passengers are those with mobility issues (42%), the elderly (30%), and passengers with small children and buggies or prams (10%). Bus descending areas and ramps are specifically designed to connect with the bus stop curbs. When cars illegally block access to bus stops, passengers, particularly those with disabilities and older passengers, are unable to safely board or exit the bus.

Today’s survey represents phase two of the Keep it Clear campaign. In 2022, Bus Éireann launched phase one of the campaign, consisting of an IPSOS survey of 1,000 Irish-based motorists. 

The research found that 25% of motorists admitted to parking or stopping in designated bus stops – with 31% of Dublin drivers admitting to blocking stops. This campaign aimed to highlight from the perspective of motorists the effects of how their actions have on traffic flow and passengers.  

Fixed fines

The fixed-charge penalties for those who park in prohibited areas including footpaths, cycle lanes and bus lanes (including bus stops) is €80. These means those who wrongly occupy bus stops may face fines from Gardaí or their local traffic warden. 

Commenting today, Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer of Bus Éireann said: “This year’s survey revealed the perspective of our bus drivers in regard to illegal parking, stopping or blocking of bus stops. The findings emphasize the experience of those who face these obstacles daily.” 

“Our drivers, who are dedicated to ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers, struggle in their efforts when access to bus stops is obstructed. With the ‘Keep it Clear’ campaign we continue to remind motorists of the impact of their actions on all passengers, especially those with disabilities, mobility issues, older people and those with buggies and small children. Blocking bus stops often leads to buses being delayed and running late and can cause significant local traffic congestion. Through this campaign, we are encouraging motorists to be more considerate of public transport users, to “Keep it Clear”.

Edel O’Connell, Head of Communications at Rehab Group said: “We fully support Bus Éireann and the National Transport Authority's 'Keep it Clear' campaign to discourage motorists from blocking bus stops. Parking or stopping in designated bus stops not only disrupts the efficient flow of public transportation but also poses significant challenges for individuals with disabilities and mobility issues.”  

“As an organisation dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility, Rehab Group recognises the importance of ensuring clear access to public transportation for all members of the community. We urge drivers to adhere to traffic regulations and prioritise the needs of vulnerable road users by refraining from obstructing bus stops." 

Wednesday, 13th March, 2024