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Irish Independent

New bus service hits the road in west Waterford

The expanded Route 363 service, which now includes regular stops in Ballyduff, is the result of sustained community campaigning, said Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness and Cllr Donnchadh Mulcahy. Speaking from Ballyduff at the first morning of the new service, Deputy McGuinness said the launch was the culmination of years of hard work by the local community. 'Huge credit is due to the people of Ballyduff Upper. This didn't happen by accident – it happened because the community spoke with one voice and refused to be left behind. Donnchadh and I were proud to play our part, alongside Local Link Waterford, and community groups, to get this service in place.' Deputy McGuinness, who is the party spokesperson on rural affairs, said the impact would be felt immediately. 'This is a real win for rural inclusion. "Whether it's getting to work, making medical appointments, attending school or college, or simply staying connected – public transport is essential infrastructure. The people of Ballyduff now have a regular, reliable service that links them to Tallow, Dungarvan and beyond. That matters.' Cllr Donnchadh Mulcahy echoed the sentiment, praising those who had worked behind the scenes for years to make the case. 'There was a great turnout this morning, and that says it all. This service will be used – and it will make a difference. We've been pushing for this for years. I've met with Local Link and local stakeholders many times, and the message was always the same: Ballyduff needed a transport link. I'm proud we helped deliver it.' Cllr Mulcahy said the service would help address long-standing barriers for the area. 'This isn't just a bus. It's access to opportunity, to education, to health services, to social connection. And it's a two-way street – more visitors, more activity, more life in the village. That's how we grow strong rural communities.'