A CAMPAIGN FIGHTING Dublin Bus’s decision to scrap the number 19 route is to intensify its actions in the coming weeks as the organisation insists the areas it serves will continue to be served.

Starting today, organisers of the ‘Save the 19 Bus’ campaign say they have planned an “escalating series of demonstrations”.

To kick off the action, a protest will take place outside Dublin Bus Headquarters on O’Connell Street from one o’clock this afternoon.

More than 11,500 people have now signed a petition to save the number 19 Dublin Bus route.

Despite the campaign, the National Transport Authority has approved Dublin Bus’s proposal to scrap the route, which travels from Jamestown Road, through Phibsboro towards O’Connell Street and on to South Circular Road and Dolphin’s Barn, terminating at Bulfin Road.

Dublin Bus said in a statement: “It is untrue to say that Route 19 is being withdrawn or ‘scrapped’. The route number “19” will no longer be used but the general areas that it currently serves on both the northside and southside of the city will continue to be served – albeit by different bus route numbers.”

Dublin Bus says that from 28 August, the route will no longer operate but offers alternative services through their number 9, 68, 83, and 122 buses. Read the full statement.

Professor Mark Lawler, one of the leaders of the group, said that the decision to stop the bus route is a “kick in the teeth” for senior citizens who will be most affected by the change.

“We will not accept this decision and will continue to fight for the commuters, young and old alike, who use this bus every day to get to work, school and medical appointments,” he added.

The group says it has the support of 13 TDs and 24 councillors. Protests were held in June across the city against changes to Dublin Bus Services. Another demonstration was held by the ‘Save the 19 Bus’ campaigners on 3 August.

- additional reporting Hugh O’Connell

In pictures: Protest to save the number 19 bus >