NTA extend Go-Ahead contract despite concerns

THE National Transport Authority (NTA) has decided to extend the bus contract of Go-Ahead despite saying it is “not satisfied” with the company’s performance.

The private bus operator was fined more than €850k for failing to meet targets in the first six months of 2022.

The NTA contract will keep 25 Dublin bus routes with the Ballymount headquartered Go Ahead Ireland, until at least October 2024.

Go Ahead took over the routes from Dublin Bus in 2018.

Last week, TD Mark Ward (SF) called on Transport Minister Eamon Ryan and the NTA to address “atrocious standards” on bus routes served by Go-Ahead Ireland.

“Commuters in Dublin Mid West are fed up to the teeth of the poor service being delivered by Go-Ahead Ireland,” said Deputy Ward.

“Late buses, no shows, over-crowding and generally poor service standards are commonplace on routes 76, 18, L51 and L52.

“Sinn Féin warned the privatisation of our bus services would drive down standards, as profits would be prioritised over punctuality, reliability and customer service.

“Go-Ahead’s Irish subsidiary made a €2.6m profit last year, which is hard for commuters to stomach given the poor service they are experiencing on the ground.”