Security guards are being deployed on Dublin Bus services from today.
It's part of a pilot scheme, launched today, aimed at improving safety across the network.
Bus drivers have long-called for protections, in response to a reported rise in anti-social behaviour on public transport.
The number of reported incidents of anti-social behaviour on Dublin Bus services has doubled since 2019.
The Safer Journeys Team will initially consist of two dedicated mobile units, with one operating on Dublin’s northside and the other on the southside.
These teams will operate from 2pm to 7pm, Sunday to Thursday, and 4pm to 4am Friday and Saturday, covering peak hours of travel and late-night services.
"Reassuring"
Billy Hann, CEO of Dublin Bus says: "We are proud to launch the Safer Journeys Team, a key step in our commitment to making every journey on Dublin Bus a safer journey.
"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. The team will provide a visible and reassuring presence for both our customers and employees, actively enhancing safety and security across our network."
Minister of State at the Department of Transport, James Lawless says: "As a regular commuter, I understand how important it is that all of us feel safe on public transport, whether you’re a passenger or a member of staff.
"I know that all of the public transport operators are expending significant resources introducing measures to counter the impact of anti-social behaviour and ensuring the safety and security on board services, and I believe that the launch of the Safer Journeys Team by Dublin Bus is a further positive step in this regard.
"As a former Chair of the Oireachtas Justice Committee, I am aware of the frequency with which this issue arose and the concerns of the travelling public towards anti-social behaviour. It is not acceptable that our public transport routes would be marred by such behaviours.
"The 20-week pilot scheme will not only provide a visible security presence, but it will also give valuable insights into the impact of such an initiative and best practices for the sector as we strive to meet demand for the ever-increasing numbers of people opting to make the switch from their cars to more sustainable transport modes."
Secretary General of The National Bus and Rail Union, Dermot O’Leary and SIPTU, Transport Sector Organiser John Murphy says: "The introduction of the Safer Journeys Team is an important step forward in ensuring the safety of both drivers and customers. 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."
