Sligo council demands earlier train service for commuters

Sligo County Council is pressing Irish Rail to implement an early morning train service on the Dublin-Sligo line to better serve students and commuters. The council argues that the current earliest westbound train, arriving in Sligo at 10:16 am, does not meet the needs of modern commuters or students trying to get to work or college.

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doesn't align with the reality of modern commuting.

A motion, unanimously backed by councillors, calls for a service that arrives in Sligo no later than 8:30 am. Councilor Edel McSharry highlighted that despite an improved rail line, the schedule is incompatible with daily work and education requirements. She emphasized that providing a suitable rail service is crucial for balanced regional development, offering a practical, affordable, and sustainable transport solution.

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If we’re serious about balanced regional development, then we must provide a rail service that allows people to get to Sligo in time for work and education.

Research supports the demand for such a service. A study by Atlantic Technological University (ATU) found that 47,000 people live within 5km of the Sligo-Longford rail line, with 90% of surveyed respondents indicating they would use a train arriving before 9 am. This demand is further amplified by a separate ATU Sligo Students’ Union survey, where 64% of students reported that accommodation difficulties negatively impact their studies.

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clear evidence

Councillors across the political spectrum supported the motion, citing potential benefits like reduced traffic congestion and carbon emissions, alongside support for local employers and educational institutions. The amalgamation of IT Sligo into ATU was seen as a "gamechanger" for the region, making an early morning service "very badly needed." Irish Rail acknowledged the demand and stated it is examining the possibility within its broader timetable planning with the National Transport Authority.

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a gamechanger