People in Limerick ‘empowered’ with new accessible bus service

BUS ÉIREANN and the National Transport Authority (NTA) have launched the extension of the Independent Travel Support (ITS) service in Limerick.

Formerly known as the Travel Assistance Scheme, this service assists passengers aged 18 years and over with additional needs to develop skills to use public transport independently.

According to the most recent Census, in April 2022 in Limerick, more than 47,000 people reported experiencing at least one long-lasting condition or difficulty to any extent.

Naomi Rooney, NTA transport accessibility manager, said: “We are delighted to support the expansion of the ITS service to Limerick.

“The introduction of this service in Limerick city marks a significant step toward a fully accessible transport system, empowering all passengers to travel independently with confidence.”

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The service is free of charge and open between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday by calling TFI on 0818 294 015 or emailing independent.travel @buseireann.ie.

The ITS service has operated in Dublin since 2008, was extended to Cork in 2022 and has since expanded to support passengers in Limerick, Waterford and Galway.

In Limerick, Cork, Waterford and Galway, ITS is managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the NTA and operates on TFI services operated by Iarnród Éireann, Cork Commuter services, Bus Éireann, Dublin Coach, City Direct and TFI Local Link. In Dublin,

ITS is managed by Dublin Bus on behalf of the NTA.

In 2024, Bus Éireann announced a milestone in its commitment to accessible travel with the 1,000th assist as part of the ITS service.

Allen Parker, chief customer officer of Bus Éireann said the company is “delighted to support” the extended service to Limerick.

“The service is growing from strength to strength, and Bus Éireann is thrilled to have supported so many passengers and we are committed to continuing this essential service,” he said.