IT has been confirmed that the extended direct bus services to the city laid on by Dublin Bus in the wake of the collapse of the viaduct at Malahide are to remain in place for an unspecified time after the bridge reopens.

Last week we reported calls for the direct routes to the city using the Port Tunnel from a number of Fingal towns remain in place and Senator Brendan Ryan (Lab), backed those calls. Confirmation has now come from Dublin Bus that those extended services will remain in place after November 16th when the rail line is due to be back in business.

Senator Ryan said: 'I have been informed by senior management (of Dublin Bus) that they intend to continue the service for some time after November 16th , and Dublin Bus will then decide whether or not to leave the services in place, based on passenger numbers.'

Senator Ryan said: 'Many commuters have been in touch with me over the past few weeks to state their wishes that the temporary services, including the 33X, 33D, and the school bus from Donabate to Malahide and Portmarnock, would remain in place after the train service was reinstated.

'In my discussions with Dublin Bus management I stressed this potential demand that exists out there amongst the travelling public.' The Labour Senator said: 'Dublin Bus has informed me that they would like to continue the services for as long as demand continues.

'In the initial stage, I have stressed to the company that it is important that people be given a choice as to which service they wish to use. Thereafter the travelling public must vote with their feet.

'Some may go back to the train, some may stick with the bus, and with a better service, hopefully even more people will leave the car at home.'

The local Senator added: 'If people are given the option between using a car, or else taking public transport, I am sure that many more people from North Fingal will choose to take buses and trains, if the improved bus service, along with the reinstated train service, are in place.'

- John MANNING