New pilot schemes in Ireland will allow people in rural areas to summon a bus using an app, similar to taxi services. The technology will be integrated into Local Link services, enabling pre-bookings and on-demand pickups. The trial will run for a year in three regions, focusing on usability and service effectiveness.
People in rural Ireland will be able to call a bus to pick them up after a night out under new pilot schemes to be rolled out in some parts of the country. The scheme will bring the technology used for major taxi apps to Local Link services, allowing people to call a bus to collect them like they would call a taxi.
It is understood it will be rolled out in three pilot areas for one year. These include Achill/Mallaranny, Killarney town, and the Mill Road/Rhebogue areas of Limerick city. The pilot is understood to focus on the usability and effectiveness of the technology and the bus services that can be provided. It is expected that passengers will be able to use an app to pre-book their trip, and they can also make a booking through a Local Link office.Sources told the Irish Mirror that “it means a granny looking to go to bingo, or an auld fella going out for a pint will be able to get his Local Link bus to call for him like ordering a cab”. Fianna Fáil’s James Lawless, Junior Minister at the Department of Transport, stated that it would be highly beneficial to older people living in rural areas. He said: “I’ve always been a keen advocate of using the best and most innovative tech available to enhance public services for our population. “This latest pilot is something I support as a Minister for Transport because it can make a real difference in ordinary people’s lives, especially the elderly or those living in rural areas, who may feel they have been neglected in the past.Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
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