The 24-hour E1 and E2 services become operational today as part of phase 6a of the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) BusConnects Network Redesign in Dublin.
This phase sees the introduction of 13 new routes in total, delivered in partnership with Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead Ireland.
Routes to be introduced in Phase 6a will serve communities between Dublin Airport, north Dublin, the city centre, south Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, and north Wicklow.
Overall bus service levels in these areas are to increase by over seven per cent as a result of these changes.
The combined E-spine routes, E1 and E2, will run around the clock, from north of Ballymun through the city centre, to Dún Laoghaire and Bray/Ballywaltrim to the south.
The E-spine will improve access to key services including third-level colleges, such as UCD, TCU, DCU, and TUD, and hospitals like the Mater, the Rotunda, Temple Street, and Loughlinstown.
E1 and E2 will bring to 12 the number of 24/7 bus services in the TFI bus network in Dublin.
NTA’s introduction of 24-hour services is in line with the recommendations of the Government’s Night-Time Economy Taskforce to improve the public realm and provide effective public transport solutions through the night.
This will make it easier for people to choose public transport to get work or to socialise, and will provide support for the night-time economy.
A new route 19 which will run from Dublin Airport, through Ballymun, on to Wadelai, through Drumcondra and on to the centre of Dublin is also part of this phase of BusConnects.
The 19 will run every 20 minutes for most of the day and every 10 minutes between Wadelai and the city centre at peak times.
From January 26th, the 19 will initially terminate in Parnell Square, with three week-day morning peak services running to Merrion Square and three week-day evening peak services running from Merrion Square.
Additional services to and from Merrion Square will be introduced from February 4th. From April, services will run day-long to and from Merrion Square.
Phase 6a also includes the introduction of eight new local routes. In the new network, these routes are designed to provide links to local centres and to onward transport connections.
From January 26th the L1, L2, L3, L12, L14, L15, L26, and L27 will become operational, providing new services and new connectivity, particularly in the south Dublin and north Wicklow areas.

Hugh Creegan, interim chief executive of the NTA, said: “Today’s launch reflects our commitment to creating a more connected, accessible and reliable public transport system, ensuring our passengers have more choices and flexibility to their daily travel.
“Expanding our round- the- clock services and enhancing our connectivity is essential to support Ireland’s growing population with sustainable, efficient transport options.”
Billy Hann, chief executive of Dublin Bus said: "“We are excited to welcome the new year with the launch of services that will make a real difference for Dublin Bus customers across the city.
“The E1 and E2 routes, both operating 24 hours a day, will help support Dublin’s vibrant night-time economy."