Minister pushes for Knock airport bus link following budget transport boost
MINISTER of State Alan Dillon is pressing for the proposed Castlebar - Ireland West Airport bus service to be prioritised as funding decisions on new public transport services are progressed in the coming weeks.
Budget 2027 provides €1.042 billion for State-subsidised public transport, an 11% increase, with approximately 140 new and enhanced services in the pipeline nationally.
Minister Dillon is seeking funding for TFI Route 444 within the NTA’s 2027 programme.
The proposed seven-day service would link Castlebar, Breaffy, Manulla, Balla, Kiltimagh, Kilkelly, Knock, Ireland West Airport and Charlestown, with an estimated annual operating cost of €400,000.
Said Minister Dillon: “People in Castlebar and west Mayo want a direct bus connection to Knock airport. This route would provide that link from Castlebar, giving people a practical option without having to drive or arrange a lift.
“With Knock airport on course to exceed one million passengers in 2026, this service is vital to the further development of this vital transport link for the west of Ireland. The route has been identified, planning is at an advanced stage, and the costs have been assessed. Budget 2027 has created the funding opportunity. My priority now is to secure Mayo’s share and get this service on the road.
“It ticks the boxes for airport access, local connectivity and getting people to work, college and hospital appointments. There is a strong, practical case for funding it.”
A priority for TFI Local Link Mayo under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, Route 444 would operate five to six times daily, seven days a week, subject to funding approval and competitive tendering. Connections with Route 22 would strengthen access from Swinford, Foxford and Ballina.
“This would improve access to Mayo University Hospital and ATU Mayo, support local businesses and make it easier for visitors arriving at the airport to reach our towns,” said Minister Dillon.
“Decisions on rural Local Link and urban services will be progressed in the coming weeks. I will be pressing for Route 444 to be included in the funded programme for 2027.”
Minister Dillon also outlined a forthcoming Department of Transport review examining where public transport could appropriately support school journeys.
“Better connections for students could ease pressure on families. I want Mayo’s needs reflected in that review and the increased transport budget delivering services people can use every day.”
More on the story from Minister Dillon here.