It will be 2026 before the bus stop in Farranfore has a new pole and signage, despite funding allocations for the last two years.
Independent councillor Jackie Healy-Rae told the recent meeting of Kerry County Council that “It’s a bit Irish” to be waiting two years for a couple of poles and a sign.
The council was granted €500,000 in 2024 and 2025 to enhance bus stops, and Cllr Healy-Rae asked the council how much had been drawn down.
He said in Farranfore, they are waiting for two bus stop signs for two years now.
He said it’s embarrassing that there’s an international airport there, and when visitors come into the village, all that’s there are sockets in the ground after two years.
He said funding has clearly been allocated, and asked why there had been a delay.
The council’s response to the motion outlined four bus stops had been completed with that funding allocation, while three will commence in the first quarter of next year.
Nine more bus stops are awaiting TII approval, and ten will be progressing to design stage in the second quarter of the year.
Sockets are installed for a further 16 bus stops in Kerry, but the contractor for the National Transport Authority is awaiting delivery of the pole and signage; this is the case for stops in Farranfore.
At the council meeting, Director of Roads Frank Hartnett said there is a long lead-in time to these things, and many bus stops actually require footpath alterations.
Mr Hartnett said there is a lot in train and the funding will rollover, it has not been lost.
He said the council specifically prioritised Farranfore and they initially thought the poles and signs would be up by Christmas, but he’s been told it will be another few weeks before they’re delivered.
