Calls For Support For Wicklow Bus Operators Amid Fuel Costs Rise 

Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin says there is an 'unfair imbalance threatening the viability of regional services, school transport routes, and essential commuter connections.'

Wicklow–Wexford TD Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin is calling on the Government to introduce emergency supports for commercial bus operators serving parts of County Wicklow.

The Sinn Féin deputy says companies like Wexford Bus, serving stops including Arklow, Jack White’s, the Beehive and Wicklow Town, are facing significant cost pressures as fuel prices continue to increase.

Deputy Ó Súilleabháin says the rising price of diesel is placing major strain on the commercial coach and bus sector, warning it could have knock-on impacts for tourism in the Garden County, particularly with the busy summer season approaching: 

With summer approaching, Wicklow welcomes a huge number of visitors travelling to destinations such as Glendalough, Avoca, and attractions like the Botanic Gardens, who rely heavily on coach transport. If fuel costs continue to rise at the current rate, many operators may not be able to survive. 

The deputy is also highlighting what he describes as an “unfair imbalance”, saying commercial bus operators cannot reclaim VAT on fuel in the same way as the haulage sector.

He is calling on the Government to introduce a fuel duty rebate for bus operators, temporary excise relief, and a fuel cost adjustment mechanism in State school transport contracts.

Deputy Ó Súilleabháin has submitted a Parliamentary Question to the Transport Minister demanding immediate action: 

The Government cannot continue to ignore the pressures facing the commercial bus sector. Without targeted supports, routes will be cut, services reduced, and communities left isolated.