Buses and trains operating at 50% capacity as inter-county travel returns

With the return of inter-county travel as lockdown measures are eased today, public transport services will be operating at 50% capacity.

Bus Éireann said it was "strongly" urging customers to book seats in advance for travel on its inter-regional Expressway routes, while Irish Rail said those who intend to travel by Intercity must book in advance on its website.

A statement issued by Bus Éireann advised customers to travel outside of peak times and to be prepared for greater demand on some services, especially during periods of fine weather, at weekends, and during the morning and evening commute times.

"It is very welcome that public transport will now be operating at a capacity of 50% and we look forward to playing our part in the safe reopening of society. For Bus Éireann that means carrying between 20 and 30 passengers on board, depending on vehicle size," said Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer at the bus company.

"A significant investment in technology since last summer means that guaranteed seat booking is now available for all Expressway interregional routes at expressway.ie, including for holders of free travel passes.

"We strongly urge customers to make use of this new facility to ensure they have a guaranteed seat for their journey, as walk up seats may not be available at all," said Mr Parker.

Bus Éireann has introduced new services and schedules, so if you haven’t travelled for some time, check buseireann.ie and expressway.ie to plan your trip.

A full train schedule is currently operating, but with 50% capacity on board and Intercity bookings required at irishrail.ie

Irish Rail said customers "should only make necessary journeys," and that peak travel should be avoided unless your journey is for essential work, education, care provision or medical purposes.

Face coverings continue to be mandatory on bus and train journeys.