A Shannon resident is describing the 343 bus route, which connects Limerick city to Ennis via the town, as ‘a nightmare’.
Locals are claiming they’ve experienced delayed buses, full vehicles or buses that don’t arrive on time or at all.
Bus Éireann, which operates the route, says they have deployed three double-decker vehicles on the route to cater for increased demand, and will replace all other single deck vehicles with doubles in the ‘first part’ of 2023.
Malika Rizvi, who lives in Shannon and whose daughter began studying at UL in September, says it’s unfair on those looking to commute from the town and use public transport.
Listen back to the full interview here:
Statement From Bus Éireann:
As your listener has identified, Bus Éireann has seen a very significant growth in usage of the Route 343 service which links Shannon, Ennis and Limerick City. We are seeing much increased demand across the country – our passenger numbers are some 15% higher than they were in 2019. This demand is particularly focused in the morning and evening peak times and has resulted in certain departures at peak times operating full on significant parts of Route 343, including Shannon. To increase capacity, we have already deployed three double-decker vehicles on Route 343 to ensure the maximum capacity is available – these offer an extra 33 seats per vehicle. During the first part of 2023, all other single deck vehicles on Route 343 will be replaced with double-deck vehicles.
In terms of reliability, there has been an increase in heavy traffic during peak commuter times between Shannon, Ennis and Limerick. Congestion means delays to services, and can have a knock-on effect on the vehicle as it operates throughout the day. Again, this is an operational challenge we are increasingly encountering and there is very limited bus prioritisation outside of Dublin. We work closely with the NTA to review timetables and make adjustments to improve punctuality and reliability in response to operating conditions.
There have been some technical issues with the real time passenger information system nationally in recent months, which is being addressed by Bus Éireann with the National Transport Authority. We apologise for this and advise that Bus Éireann customer care is available 24 hours a day on Twitter and by phone at 0818 836 611 between 7.00am to 7.00pm weekdays and 8.00am to 6.00pm weekends and public holidays.
