In response to a significant rise in anti-social behaviour, Dublin Bus has launched a 20-week pilot programme deploying security guards across its network. This initiative, which began on 7 October 2024, aims to enhance the safety of both passengers and staff.
Over the past five years, incidents of anti-social behaviour on Dublin Bus services have more than doubled, increasing from around 500 reports in 2019 to over 1,000 in 2023. This alarming trend has prompted Dublin Bus to take decisive action to ensure the safety and security of its services.
The pilot programme involves two mobile security units operating on the north and south sides of Dublin. These units will be active from 2pm to 2am, Sunday to Thursday, and from 4pm to 4am on Fridays and Saturdays. The security teams will be highly visible, wearing full uniforms and equipped with body cameras to deter potential troublemakers.
The security guards have been granted the authority to use “reasonable force” and make citizen’s arrests if necessary. Their primary role, however, is to de-escalate situations and prevent incidents from escalating. They will also assist with fare evasion and crowd control, particularly during peak hours and on weekend nights.
This initiative complements existing safety measures such as on-board CCTV and close cooperation with An Garda Síochána. Dublin Bus CEO Billy Hann emphasised that the presence of security guards is intended to provide a reassuring presence for both customers and employees. The company hopes that this pilot programme will be successful and plans to make it a permanent measure, pending funding from the National Transport Authority.
Dublin Bus will closely monitor the impact of the security teams, gathering feedback from both customers and employees to assess the programme’s effectiveness. The goal is to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone using Dublin Bus services.
The introduction of security guards has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including bus unions and public representatives. There is a consensus that every driver and passenger has the right to feel safe while using public transport. The initiative is seen as a critical step towards restoring public confidence in the safety of Dublin’s public transport system.
The security teams will operate in areas identified as having the highest incidents of anti-social behaviour. They will be jumping on and off buses in these areas, assisting with fare evasion and crowd control, especially during busy weekend nights. The presence of these guards is expected to act as a deterrent to potential troublemakers.
Billy Hann also mentioned that while the primary role of the security guards is to de-escalate situations, they are trained to use reasonable force if necessary. This includes making citizen’s arrests and detaining individuals until the arrival of An Garda Síochána. The guards are equipped with body cameras, which not only help in de-escalating situations but also provide evidence if required.
The deployment of security guards on Dublin Bus services marks a proactive approach to tackling the growing issue of anti-social behaviour. By enhancing safety measures and ensuring a visible security presence, Dublin Bus aims to provide a safer and more secure travel experience for all its passengers. The success of this pilot programme could lead to a permanent implementation, significantly improving the overall safety and customer experience on Dublin Bus services.
