Bus Éireann suspends service in parts of Limerick city after driver shot in eye

Services on route 303 have been suspended at O’Malley Park and Carew Park in the Southill area until further notice.

“Bus Éireann continues to investigate a serious incident of anti-social behaviour which occurred on 12 July 2024 in the O’Malley Park area of ​​Limerick on route 303 (Kilmallock Rd – Pineview),” a spokesperson said.

According to SIPTU, passengers entered the vehicle and fired an air pistol at the driver, causing the driver to suffer “bruising to the side of her eye.”

The Bus Éireann driver suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital as a precaution.

“On Sunday 14 July 2024, another incident occurred on route 303 in Carew Park where several youths assaulted our driver while he was driving,” the Bus Éireann spokesperson added.

“Due to these incidents, service on route 303 from O’Malley Park and Carew Park has been suspended until further notice and this is currently under review.

“Customers are advised to visit the Service Updates section of our website for the most up-to-date travel information.”

The incidents have been referred to An Garda Síochána and Bus Éireann is providing the necessary assistance, including making CCTV equipment available to the Gardaí.

“Bus Éireann does not tolerate anti-social or criminal behaviour towards our customers or employees,” the company added.

“As this case is currently being investigated by the Gardaí, we are unable to provide any further information on this specific incident.

“The safety of our passengers and staff is Bus Éireann’s highest priority. All reported incidents are taken very seriously and fully investigated. Customers can report incidents to the Gardaí, the driver or our Customer Service team on 0818 836 611 or via [email protected].”

Adrian Kane, organiser of Siptu’s transport department, described the attacks as “shocking” incidents.

“The time for expressing concern about the increasing incidence of anti-social behaviour and violence on our public transport system is now over,” he said.

“We need real action from government to ensure that the public transport system becomes safer for workers and passengers.”

Gardaí issued the following statement: “Gardaí in Roxboro Road were informed of an incident on a bus in O’Malley Park, Southill, Limerick at approximately 12:10pm on Friday afternoon, 12 July 2024.

“The bus driver, around 30 years old, was attacked by several youths but did not require immediate medical attention.”

The investigation is ongoing, authorities added.