Pensioner told to get off the bus when pass failed
By Maurice Garvey
A PENSIONER on his way to Brendan Grace’s funeral, claims he was told to get off the bus when his Public Services Card failed to swipe.
Matt Dodd (70), a finalist from Ireland’s Got Talent 2018, said he was getting on the 40 bus in Cherry Orchard, on July 15.
Grandfather Matt Dodd on his way to a funeral was told to get off the 40 bus
“When I got on, the pass wouldn’t bleep. The driver said ‘you will have to pay’, but I had no change on me,” said Matt, a grandfather who carved out a decent run on the hit show, and performs locally at bars and social events.
“I told him I was going to a funeral, trying to say ‘what can you do’ but the driver said ‘pay up or get off.’ I have a bad knee. He said it was Dublin Bus policy. I was fuming. It was embarrassing.
“The card is legit, up-to-date with my picture. I used it that morning to collect my pension in the post office and used it on the 40 bus before without any problem.”
Matt walked home to his house in Whitethorn and managed to get a lift into the city centre from a friend.
“I knew Brendan from the entertainment industry, I met him a number of times. Luckily, I made it into Francis Street on time, but the church was packed by then, so I had to listen to it outside with lots of other people.
“I was very annoyed with the driver, and tried to contact Dublin Bus to make a complaint but got the run-around on the phone. I left a message on a number for complaints but got no response.
“Is this their policy, to throw pensioners off the bus?” he added. “I thought the driver might take down my details, and send me a bill. It doesn’t seem right.”
The Echo contacted Dublin Bus for comment but a spokesperson said they have received no formal complaint relating to this incident on Route 40.
Customers who have a complaint can contact the Dublin Bus Customer Comment team on 01-8734222, from Monday to Saturday from 8.30am to 6.00pm.
