Passed out with meth pipe on bus

Bus Éireann says it is committed to providing a safe workspace and service to staff and customers after a man passed out at the bus station recently while in possession of a meth pipe and a syringe.

The incident happened in Cavan earlier this month and, when gardaí went to assist the male, he began to lash out.

The man was subsequently arrested, charged, and was brought before a sitting of Cavan District Court that same day.

“As this matter is before the courts, we will not be providing further information,” said a spokesperson for the force.

Bus Éireann meanwhile told the Celt that “any incidents” reported to them are taken “very seriously and are fully investigated”.

Customers or members of the public can also report any incidents to Gardaí, to the driver, or to the Customer Care team on 0818 294 015.

“Incidents of antisocial behaviour remain low across our network,” assured the Bus Éireann spokesperson, although understanding “the impact even one such incident can have on our passengers and staff".

They further pointed out: "In a recent report published by the NTA, 94% of customers report feeling safe using Bus Éireann services.”

They added however that there are “procedures in place” for drivers dealing with antisocial or obstructive behaviour on board Bus Éireann vehicles, which “all drivers are trained in”.

Security features in vehicles and at stations include direct radio contact between drivers and a 24-hour control centre; security screens for drivers across their city fleet; security personnel at stations and mobile security patrols deployed where required; and extensive CCTV in operation.

“Bus Éireann is committed to providing a safe workspace and service to our staff and customers and continues to engage all relevant stakeholders through various forums to ensure appropriate action is taken in response to incidents of antisocial or criminal behaviour,” said the spokesperson.

They concluded by stating that the company continually reevaluates its security protocols and engages with partners and employee reps on same.