Two Laois bus drivers go 'above and beyond'

LOCAL bus drivers were waiting for awards when two arrived together.

Two Laois drivers have been recognised by Transport for Ireland (TFI) for going above and beyond the call of duty for passengers.

Mattie Mills and Denise Downey are being celebrated for their exceptional patience, kindness and good humour in the 2025 ‘Above & Beyond’ TFI series.

The annual campaign selects just five drivers nationwide, to highlight the positive impact TFI Local Link drivers and staff can have on their communities.

Both Mattie and Denise are popular drivers with TFI Local Link Laois Offaly, where many regular passengers have become friends.

K Buggy Coaches driver Mattie operates TFI door-to-door routes from Rosenallis to Portlaoise and from Ballyfin to Tullamore, while Denise from Martley’s drives the 834 route from Portlaoise to Roscrea.

TFI said that Denise is very highly thought of by passengers and also by the other drivers she works with. She always has a smile and a hello for everybody.

One passenger said: “We used route 834 with 12 pupils from our autism classroom to introduce them to public transport. Denise was really patient with the boys as they boarded the bus, she greeted every one of them and helped them use their TFI Leap Cards.

“She was so kind to each and every child. It was encouraging for the boys and appreciated by all of us.” 

Denise said she loves meeting new people every day, adding: “When they become regular passengers who get to know me by my first name, it gives a great sense of achievement.” 

Meanwhile, passengers described countless times Mattie has gone above and beyond for them, describing him as extremely helpful, professional, good humoured and kind.

One passenger said: “Mattie is so helpful when I am getting on the bus and we always have a great laugh on our journey. He is so appreciated by us all.” 

Another said: “He is a most kind and compassionate driver to all and he focuses on the small moments, like talking and connecting to passengers, that makes a big difference to some very isolated passengers who travel on his bus.” 

Mattie said he looks forward to meeting passengers every week, as they make him laugh and always have a story to share.

The Above & Beyond series has been running for the past five years, celebrating drivers and staff who help to connect communities throughout rural Ireland.

Founded in 2003, TFI Local Link Laois Offaly provides transportation services in rural areas and communities, including colleges, schools and age friendly alliances.