Bus Éireann's passenger capacity cut to just 25% during Level 5

Bus Éireann has announced that its regular and Expressway services will be operating at a capacity of just 25% while the Government's Level 5 restrictions are in place.

In a statement today, the national bus company said the Government's advice for people was to avoid public transport during the new lockdown which comes into effect on Thursday.

"All travel should be limited within a 5km radius, unless the travel is essential - that is for work which is not possible from home, education, and other essential purposes," said Bus Éireann.

"Capacity is now limited to 1 in 4 seats, and passengers are advised that these seats should be reserved for essential workers, to observe capacity signage on board vehicles, and continue the mandatory wearing of face coverings on all services.

"Importantly, passengers are advised, under no circumstance, to use public transport if they are experiencing any Covid-19 related symptoms, nor should public transport be used to travel to or from a Covid-19 testing centre."

Allen Parker, Bus Éireann's Chief Customer Officer, said the capacity limit of each bus would be clearly marked on its door.

"We are working hard to try to provide transport for essential journeys and frontline workers, as we have done throughout the pandemic.

"Whilst capacity on-board is now limited to 25%, there will be no change to our timetables at this time," he said.