Despite Bus Éireann having recruited nearly 500 drivers since last year, a significant shortage of bus drivers still exists.
That's according to the company's CEO, Tramore man Stephen Kent.
According to the Irish Examiner, he said Bus Éireann will need to recruit an additional 2,000 drivers to meet "unprecedented demand."
In Waterford, last year saw a major recruitment initiative for drivers, with additional frequency added to some busy routes.
Currently Bus Éireann has a staff of 3,000 from 51 countries, however mechanics and drivers remain in short supply.
Mr. Kent confirmed that Cork is particularly impacted by a staff shortage.
"We are also working with agencies who have networks outside Ireland, to try and recruit drivers from other countries, and will need to step up this activity."
Bus companies across the country have cited traffic congestion as a challenge to the operation of bus services and routes in Ireland.
This, together with staff shortage, have impacted on service delivery, including the timing of bus arrival and departure.
66 vacancies are available within Bus Éireann at present.
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