Rising Fuel Costs Threaten School Trips and Sports Travel in Ireland

Irish coach operators are facing significant financial strain due to rapidly increasing fuel prices, potentially impacting school tours, sporting events, and commuter routes. The rising costs are forcing operators to consider price increases or service reductions, raising concerns about affordability and accessibility for students, parents, and community groups.

Diesel Prices Surge, Operators Feel the Pinch

Rory McCullough, who operates six coaches from Clogherhead, County Louth, reported a €1400 increase in his weekly diesel bill over the past week alone. He noted a price jump from €1.59 to €2.28 per litre, representing a 70-cent increase. McCullough, who has been in the coach business for 24 years, highlighted the lack of VAT rebates available to coach operators, unlike hauliers. Source

John Halpenny, of Halpenny Travel in Dundalk, one of Ireland’s oldest private coach companies with over 100 years of operation and a fleet of 32 coaches, echoed these concerns. Source

Impact on Schools and Community Groups

The increased costs are expected to translate into higher prices for services, potentially impacting school tours and GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) travel. Halpenny estimates that the cost of a coach for a GAA club could rise from approximately €600 to €690 if operators pass on the increased fuel costs. Source

Operators fear that schools, already facing financial constraints, may be forced to cancel trips or ask parents for additional contributions. The potential for service reductions, including fewer buses for school routes or commuter services, is as well a concern. McCullough estimates he is facing an additional €14,000 per week in fuel costs, a sum he believes is unsustainable in the long term. Source

Calls for Government Intervention

Both McCullough and Halpenny are urging the Irish government to take action to alleviate the burden on coach operators. McCullough suggested capping fuel prices, while Halpenny called for a reduction in excise duty on fuel and an increase in the rebate given to coach operators to 60c a litre, aiming to return fuel costs to January levels. Source

McCullough expressed pessimism about the possibility of prices decreasing in the near future, stating, “I can’t ever see these prices coming down.” Source