TFI Local Link bus services connect communities throughout rural Ireland as part of the TFI Public Transport Network. Over the last 4 years our Above & Beyond has shone a light on the impact TFI Local Link drivers and staff have on the communities they operate within – this year is no different.
This year in our #Above&Beyond series, we celebrate 5 drivers who operate a variety of bus services across the TFI Local Link network and show that TFI Local Link services are more than just a transport service.
We celebrate Pat Fitzgerald, who operates a TFI Local Link Cork Door-to-Door service in Clonakilty.
There are many examples passengers could give of Pat going above and beyond the call of duty of a bus driver every day. Pat is always obliging, willing to lend a hand and go the extra mile to help in any way he can. He’s always patient, friendly, kind, respectful, mannerly and in good humour.
One passenger has said that: “Pat always ensures we are comfortable, respected, safe and happy. He never stops showing dignity and respect to the people we support, by putting them first.”
We celebrate Liam Ryan, who drives a TFI Local Link Laois Offaly Door-to-Door service from Clonmeen to Rathdowney via Errill.
One passenger has said that “Liam always goes above and beyond for passengers, whether it’s opening the door of the bus, carrying shopping to the doorstep or just a simple smile as we get on and off the bus. It’s these little gestures that make us passengers feel appreciated and at ease with our drivers, and it really stands out to me as a thoughtful gesture by a driver who doesn’t need to go out of his way, but does so willingly.”
We celebrate Jane Hook, who drives TFI Local Link Limerick Clare Route L28.
Jane has been described by a passenger as “dependable and creates a safe environment for passengers on board”. The passenger went on to tell us how she is visually impaired, and by Jane consistently helping her on and off the bus as well as to her seat, she “feels good about using the service as I know that the drivers really care.”
We celebrate James Milea, who drives a TFI Local Link Waterford Door-to-Door service from Melleray Cappoquin to Dungarvan.
One passenger has said that “James is a very pleasant and kind man. He drops me at the hospital when I have appointments. I used to carry my shopping up the hill, but as I’m not able to now, it’s great to have the service because the driver brings me and my shopping to my front door. I really appreciate having the service and would be lost without it. James is very trustworthy, and travelling on the bus is a nice experience where I get to meet other people.”
We celebrate Pat Liston, who drives TFI Local Link Limerick Clare Route 521.
TFI Local Link passenger Joan called Pat a “wonderful and kind person who makes journeys easier, more pleasant and fun”. Joan and her friends always look forward to their trips on Route 521, thanks to the drivers. Joan is visually impaired, and told us that Pat always makes sure to collect and drop her off safely and advise her on her journeys, showing wonderful care and kindness every day. “Pat treats everyone on board – young, old and in between – exactly the same way. The drivers all deserve to be recognised for this. We would be lost without them all.”
Visit the TFI Local Link page for further details of the bus service.
