There’s been a call for a pilot night‑time Local Link service to operate during the upcoming Monaghan Country Music Festival — with a view to trialling weekend night services across the county’s larger towns if successful.
Aontú Rep for Monaghan, Olivia Larkin, says she has contacted the National Transport Authority, Local Link operators, the Vintners Association, Monaghan County Council and local councillors to discuss whether the pilot could be operational in time for the Country Music Festival in July.
She says
“As our towns host events and nightlife, many people simply cannot go out in the evenings because there is no reliable public transport or affordable taxis,” said Olivia Larkin. “If a taxi is available, the cost adds to food, drink and babysitting expenses and puts an added strain on families. Local businesses and vintners are seeing a decline in the night‑time economy as a direct result. Monaghan’s Local Link provides an excellent daytime service — these buses and routes could be put to use at night too.”
“Running a night‑time Local Link at festival times would support Monaghan businesses , make nights out accessible and affordable, and improve public safety,”
“If the pilot proves viable, we should expand this model to provide regular weekend night services in our larger towns.
