Bus Éireann to reduce frequency of some routes

Bus Éireann has said it will be reducing the frequency and changing the routes of a number of services this year because it can no longer afford to run them.

The company - which recorded a 10% fall in passenger numbers last year - said routes with low levels of customer support will be affected the most.

Spokesperson Andrew McLindon said action has to be taken to ensure that jobs are protected.

"We saw a 10% fall in passenger numbers last year and that was due to the recession," Mr McLindon said.

"Just as we grew services during the good times, when the demand was there, the sensible and prudent thing for us to do now is to reduce service levels in line with that demand.

"We have to introduce these service changes in order to protect as many jobs and services as we can."