School bus service restored after community campaign

Parents in a Mayo community are rejoicing following the restoration of a school bus service ahead of the 2026/27 academic year.

Pupils from the townlands of Derryfadda and Boleyglass in Bofeenaun had found themselves without a post-primary bus service since 2021, when the service active since 1979 was withdrawn due to a decline in student numbers, despite fully meeting the criteria since 2023-'24..

A local action group has been actively campaigning to get this route reinstated after the number of students rose again. Bridie Keegan, who is among the parents involved, said everyone is delighted.

“It is absolutely priceless to us and we are delighted to get the service back after a battle that was hard fought,” she said.

“With the help of Rose Conway-Walsh TD, we were able to present our case to the Minister for Transport. We were deemed eligible and now this service is extended out to our area. From a health and safety perspective for the kids, this is a much safer spot."

The new route will see the service commence at Fahy’s Cottage, Boleyglass and operate through Derryfada where it will continue on its normal route from Bofeenaun Church.