Ireland On-Demand Service Hits 50,000 Rides

Killarney's app-based TFI Anseo transport pilot reaches 50,000 rides since August launch

Killarney TFI Anseo Hits 50,000 Rides

Killarney's on-demand TFI Anseo service has completed over 50,000 passenger journeys since launching August 11th, the National Transport Authority announced. The smart demand-responsive pilot lets riders book trips through an app or by phone for work, medical appointments, shopping, and social activities. Edmund Betagh, TFI Local Link Programme Manager at the NTA, said the milestone demonstrates demand-responsive transport's important role in rural Ireland.

Context

Unlike traditional fixed-route buses, TFI Anseo is designed around local needs and schedules, helping residents stay connected to essential services in rural areas. The pilot is funded by the Government's Climate Action Fund and forms part of the NTA's Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, which aims to improve sustainable transport options in rural communities across Ireland. Alan O'Connell, TFI Local Link Kerry General Manager, said the service supports people in maintaining independence and participating in everyday activities. Passenger feedback and local insights have been central to the service's operation throughout the pilot.

Service Details

TFI Anseo allows passengers to book trips in advance through a mobile app or by phone, offering flexible transport for work commutes, college attendance, medical appointments, shopping trips, and social visits. The demand-responsive model adjusts routes based on actual booking requests rather than running fixed schedules, officials said. The service has become an integral part of everyday life in Killarney since its August launch. Officials didn't provide specific data on average wait times or the number of vehicles operating in the service area.

Timeline

The service launched August 11th and reached the 50,000-journey milestone in recent weeks, though officials didn't specify the exact date the threshold was crossed. The NTA will continue working with communities, local operators, and stakeholders to build on the pilot's success, but officials haven't announced whether the pilot will become permanent or expand to other areas. A timeline for future development decisions wasn't provided.

Rider Impact

The milestone shows growing reliance on flexible transport in rural areas where traditional fixed-route service may not be practical. Riders can continue booking trips through the TFI Anseo app or by phone for essential travel needs. The NTA said insights from the Killarney pilot will inform future development of demand-responsive public transport across Ireland. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for public transit services throughout Ireland.