Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the publication of the Connecting Ireland Phase Three Implementation Review and hailed the positive impact of the plan in County Galway.

The review confirms strong growth in rural bus services nationwide, with a 165% increase in usage since 2019, and nearly 8 million passenger journeys recorded in 2024. Minister Canney noted that Galway is playing a key role in the transformation of Ireland’s rural transport landscape.

Galway Highlights from Phase 3 include:

TFI Local Link Galway Route 934: Gort – Loughrea
Enhanced frequency and improved connectivity via Peterswell, Castledaly and Kilchreest. This route strengthens links between two major towns in Galway East and provides better access to services for communities in between.

TFI Local Link Galway Route 439: Galway – Loughrea (Evening Service)
Introduced in December 2024, this new evening service offers a crucial transport option for commuters, students and families travelling between Loughrea and Galway.

Speaking today, Minister Canney said: “The Connecting Ireland programme is delivering real benefits on the ground in rural Galway. These expanded services provide more frequent and reliable options for people living in towns and villages in the county ensuring they can access work, education and services without relying on the private car.”

“This is a key part of our commitment to rural connectivity, regional development and climate action—and I look forward to further progress in Phase 4.”

The Minister also welcomed that Phase 4 of the plan, now underway in 2025, includes a planned enhancement of Bus Éireann Route 415 between Galway and Mountbellew, further expanding the rural bus network in the region.

The Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan is funded by the Department of Transport and delivered by the National Transport Authority in partnership with Local Link and Bus Éireann.