Major Growth in Local Link Cork Passenger Numbers

Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, Deputy John Paul O’Shea, has welcomed the remarkable increase in the number of people using Local Link Cork public transport services in recent years, highlighting the growing importance of rural transport links across Cork.

New figures show that passenger numbers have risen sharply — from 97,000 users in 2020 to over 330,000 in 2024. Figures to August 2025 already show more than 330,000 passenger journeys, meaning another record-breaking year is on the way for Local Link Cork.

Deputy O’Shea said the increase demonstrates the strong demand for reliable, affordable, and accessible public transport options in rural communities. “These figures are a clear sign that investment in Local Link services is delivering for people right across Cork. The huge growth in passenger numbers since 2020 shows that when you provide a dependable and convenient service, people will use it. Local Link is now a vital part of everyday life for many families, workers, and older people in our rural towns and villages.”

Deputy O’Shea also noted the expansion of Local Link routes, which has supported this growth. The number of routes has increased from 161 in 2020 to 173 in 2024, providing greater coverage and more frequent connections between rural areas and major towns. “This expansion means that more communities than ever before — from Millstreet and Kanturk to Charleville, Macroom, and beyond — now have access to public transport options that simply didn’t exist a few years ago,” Deputy O’Shea added.

“Fine Gael in Government remains committed to ensuring that rural Ireland is connected and that people living outside our cities have access to high-quality transport options. The continued success of Local Link Cork is proof that this investment is working.”

Deputy O’Shea concluded by paying tribute to the staff and operators involved in delivering Local Link services, noting their “dedication and community focus” as key drivers of the scheme’s success.