SIPTU representatives have written to Bus Éireann management to request an urgent meeting to discuss what the union described as increasing incidents of anti-social behaviour on one of its Limerick services.
The union said that incidents on the Route 303 service have resulted in serious damage to buses and endangerment to workers in recent days.
It said its members have reported windows on buses being broken by youths throwing stones, workers being subjected to verbal abuse and threats of violence.
“Our members are raising serious concerns about their safety and well-being while operating this route,” said SIPTU Organiser, Andrew Quigley.
“We are now calling on the company to instigate a process of meetings with all stakeholders, including trade unions, the local authority and gardaí, to work on elevating the threat to passengers and workers utilising this service.”
“If action is not taken to deal with what is a long term and recurring issue on this route then our members will be forced to suspend services,” Mr Quigley said.
Bus Éireann has been contacted for comment.
SIPTU said that there should be a dedicated public transport policing service to combat anti-social behaviour.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to establish such a service.
