Citylink outsources operations

Citylink has outsourced its operations to Galway-based Callinan Coaches Ltd, in a deal worth more than €30 million.

Claregalway-based Callinan already operates 14 non-stop services for Citylink, as well as a number of domestic and continental services. Callinan Coaches currently employs 35 drivers and a number of maintenance staff. An additional 39 drivers will be employed under the terms of the new contract. All Citylink drivers will transfer to Callinan uner the new deal.

Callinan's fleet of 15 coaches and 24 Citylin coaches will operate the new services.

Callinan will operate the following services under the new agreement: 15 multi-stop Galway to Dublin and Dublin to Galway services daily, five Galway to Cork and five  Cork to Galway services daily, daily services from Galway to and from Clifden and daily services between Galway and Shannon Airport.  This is in addition to routes already operated by Callinan on behalf of Citylink.

Citylink managing director Cathy Cullen said the outsourcing contract was an integral part of the company's strategy to secure its financial stability. "The deal is great news for the travelling public as it consolidates the level and quality of services currently being provided, while it also enables Citylink to refocus its marketing strategy going forward".

Callinan Coaches founder Tommy Callinan said: "We look forward to continuing our work with Citylink Ireland, delivering a service that allows the company to concentrate on launching new routes and expanding its scope throughout Ireland."

Citylink is owned by Singapore-based company Comfortdelgro Ltd.