• Bus Éireann is proud to support Just A Minute Cards to assist those who need a little more time to use public transport services
• Fourth anniversary of the JAM card initiative
• Over 600,000 people in Ireland are living with a disability, 80% of these are non-visible
Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company, is proud to support Just a Minute Cards to assist customers who need a little extra time when using our bus services in Galway and nationwide.
The JAM Card allows people with a learning difficulty, autism, or any condition where communication can be a barrier to show their JAM Card to the driver or a staff member and relay that they may need a little extra time or ‘Just A Minute’ when accessing services.
Anne Rabbitte TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, said: “I am delighted to see Bus Éireann continuing to embrace the JAM Card initiative. It’s a case of a small change making a big difference and helps break down barriers when it comes to people with disabilities accessing transport. I thank Bus Éireann for ensuring their services are as accessible as possible.”
Brian Connolly, Regional Operations Manager, West, Bus Éireann, said: “We recognise the importance of JAM Cards and see how it can have a positive impact on the many customers that use them on our services. We have a very successful TFI Travel Assistance Scheme in Cork city who have supported many people living in Cork by supporting and empowering service users to travel independently on public transport. We are hoping to expand the Travel Assistance Scheme in Limerick, Dublin and Galway in the New Year.
Brian concluded: “We understand the importance of accessible services for people with disabilities. We operate a fully accessible fleet in all our city and town services, with the support of the National Transport Authority (NTA) and also operate School Transport Services on behalf of the Department of Education for over 11,000 pupils in Galway, including children with Special Educational Needs.”
Cllr. Frank O’Flynn, Mayor of County Cork, added: “I am delighted to support Bus Éireann in championing the ‘Just a Minute’ cards (JAM). These cards play a crucial role in breaking down communication barriers, allowing individuals the time they need when accessing services. Cork County Council’s Library and Arts Service successfully introduced the JAM cards in December 2021. I wholeheartedly support the expansion and inclusion of additional services to JAM cards as they embody our fundamental values of inclusion and support, fostering an environment when everyone is welcome.”
Ciarán Delaney, JAM Card Ambassador said: “The JAM Card is going from strength to strength, encouraging disabled people to engage with more confidence; as a result of their use of the JAM Card.”
JAM Cards are available for free and for more information, please visit https://jamcard.org/. JAM Cards are recognised on all Bus Éireann services and in all Bus Éireann bus stations.
For more information about the JAM Card log onto: https://www.transportforireland.ie/jam-card/
