Irish Rail has warned commuters that places on the majority of their busiest inter-county train routes are close to being sold out.
In a statement that was released online, they said they've been experiencing “extremely high booking levels” for the weekend and reminded passengers that they must pre-book to avail of Intercity travel.
The statement adds: "Most trains sold out today in both directions between Heuston and Galway; Heuston and Westport; Limerick and Galway; Connolly and Belfast."
They also shared the following update about the routes that are filling up and are sold out.
Aside from the normal weekend footfall, the rise in demand for train tickets can also be attributed to Ireland’s first big music festival for 16 months that's due to take place at Dublin's Royal Hospital Kilmainham on Saturday, July 3.
Elsewhere, the prospect of indoor dining in Northern Ireland could also be a factor.
At present, Iarnród Éireann is operating on a full timetable but train capacity has been reduced by half.
Commuters are also being asked to consider the following three points if they plan on making a train journey soon;
- Please only travel if your journey is necessary, and avoid peak and busier times if at all possible
- Seating will be unassigned, and customers are asked not to sit in seating designated as restricted, to ensure appropriate distancing, and
- Face coverings are mandatory on public transport and in stations.
