Bus service for rural pubs could be ready for election

A PILOT scheme to bus residents of rural Ireland to and from pubs and social events may on the road in time for this year’s general election.

News that a night-time extension of the rural transport initiative could soon be up and running comes as it was revealed that the number of pubs in Munster alone was down 160 last year while, nationally, time was called at 437 public houses.

The transport plan is the brainchild of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the Department of Transport.

Concern has been expressed by vintners’ representatives in recent times about the effect of legislative changes such as the smoking ban and random breath testing on their business, particularly in rural areas.

A spokesman for the Department of Rural, Community and Gaeltacht Affairs confirmed yesterday that government officials are currently working on the details for a pilot after-hours rural transport link.

This would not only help drinkers to get to their local pub without risking a drink-driving charge, but would also be used to bring people to mass at night-time, to social and sports clubs, and other meeting-places.

A meeting took place between Minister Eamon Ó Cuív and Minister of State Pat the Cope Gallagher three weeks ago in relation to the transport plan.

They agreed the “parameters” of a proposal and the details are now being ironed out.

“It’s possible that a pilot scheme might be up and running before the election,” the department spokesman said.