Security Begins Operating On Dublin Bus Services

8 October 2024 - Alexander Broderick - Intern at Metro Dublin

Dublin Bus plans to keep a close eye on the progress that is made over the 20-week program to see how it impacts and benefits the public using their service.

Dublin Buses at Merion Square

Yesterday on October 7th. A new security initiative began operating on Dublin Bus services in response to the rising levels of anti-social behaviour that have doubled over the past five years. The Safer Journeys Team, a 20-week pilot program, is now active across the city, with two dedicated mobile units deployed on the North and South sides of Dublin. These units will be operational daily from 2pm to 2am, Sunday to Thursday, and from 4pm to 4am on Friday and Saturday. This strategic scheduling aims to address the most challenging times for anti-social behaviour, particularly on busy weekend nights.

The rise in anti-social behaviour has been a growing concern, with reports doubling from about 500 incidents in 2019 to over 1,000 in 2023. The increased number of incidents prompted this new initiative by Dublin Bus to ensure the safety of both passengers and staff. As part of the launch, Dublin Bus CEO Billy Hann spoke of the importance of the new measures. "The team will provide a visible and reassuring presence for both our customers and employees, actively enhancing safety and security across our network," Hann said. He stressed the necessity of addressing these safety issues head-on, ensuring a safer environment for those who rely on Dublin Bus services.

Bus drivers and their unions have been particularly vocal about the need for improved safety measures. The sentiment was echoed by union representatives, who have long pushed for more protections for drivers facing the growing threat of anti-social behaviour. “Every driver has the right to be safe” - Unions. Underlining the necessity of ensuring drivers are protected while they are at work.

James Lawless TD and Dublin Bus CEO, Billy Han photographed at the launch of the security initiative. Photo via @dublinbusnews on X.

It was reported on RTÉ's Morning Ireland that Mr. Hann mentioned that while he shares his views with the Bus Union, the need for a Garda Public Transport Unit is urgent and he could not wait any longer for there to be one.

Mr. Hann says “Whether you are heading home after working a late shift or catching up with friends in town, you deserve to feel safe on board our services.” 

Buses at College Green

"They'll be jumping on and off buses all over the city and trying to and deal with any anti-social behaviour issues. One of their other functions is they'll be helping our revenue protection unit with regards to fare evasion and they'll also be helping with crowd control on our night time services, particularly in the city centre on Friday and Saturday evening. Statistically speaking we know the areas that have the challenges and we'll be focusing our personnel in those areas."

Secretary General of The National Bus and Rail Union, Dermot O’Leary and SIPTU, Transport Sector Organiser John Murphy added:
"Every driver has the right to be safe and protected while at work and this initiative is a welcome move towards achieving that goal. We will continue to work closely with Dublin Bus, Government and all stakeholders to ensure this pilot programme delivers real results for those on the front lines of our transport system.”
“However, we want to be very clear in our view, that this is not a silver bullet and the need for a dedicated Garda Public Transport Unit remains."

Former Chair of the Oireachtas Justice Committee states they’re aware of the frequency of the rising issue for the safety concerns of travelling on public transport regarding the anti social behavioural problems.

Dublin Bus at O'Connell Street

Dublin Bus plans to keep a close eye on the progress that is made over the 20-week program to see how it impacts and benefits the public using their service.