A Monaghan man says Bus Éireann's online booking system is isolating older bus users.
Seamus McFadden says that before the introduction of MyExpressway, access to buses was much more streamlined and more customer focused.
He says people who can't access the online booking run the risk of being left behind because it's linked to seat reservations.
Bus Éireann says online booking isn't mandatory but is there for convenience, and while phone bookings can't be processed, a customer service line can assist people in making an online booking.
It added that it's exploring options of installing a ticket vending machine at Monaghan Bus Station to give people more options on how to buy passes.
Seamus welcomed this development, saying online booking doesn't work for everyone.
STATEMENT FROM BUS ÉIREANN
Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company made a large investment in a new online booking system, MyExpressway last year. Guaranteed seat reservations are available for intending customers booking online at expressway.ie. All customers, including Free Travel Pass users, can avail of MyExpressway to guarantee their seat.
Although not mandatory, by booking online, customers enjoy priority boarding and peace of mind knowing that they have secured their seat for scheduled services. Customers who have booked in advance on Expressway services will also be informed by email in advance of any cancellations to their selected service. Tickets can be booked online or via phone on the Expressway website expressway.ie.
Customers who need assistance with the online booking process can contact our Customer Care agents by calling 0818 836 611. They will bring them through the process but cannot take bookings directly. They are available to help between 7.00am and 7.00pm Monday to Friday and between 8.00am and 6.00pm on weekends and public holidays.
Since the reopening of Monaghan bus station, a new direct communication system has also been installed. A phone line is tied to our customer care team who can assist customers with any queries. In addition, there is also a Supervisor on-site in Monaghan who is available to help customers with any service-related questions. We are also exploring options to offer tickets for sale in Monaghan bus station as it currently does not have a ticket vending machine in place.
As there are ticket vending machines in place at Busáras, it is possible for customers to reserve seats in advance for future journeys and supervisors on-site will be happy to help intending customers to book their tickets.
