Bus Éireann confirm probe after 'pepper spray' released on Wicklow to Dublin service

The company was responding to reports that a number of passengers on board the Dublin-bound bus had to be treated by National Ambulance Service medics after someone let off pepper spray or mace inside the vehicle.

The incident occurred just after 2.30pm as the bus belonging to Bus Éireann was travelling through Rathnew.

According to the Wicklow People, the bus had to pull in at the stop beside the site of the old St Ernan’s School after the pepper spray or mace had affected up to a dozen passengers on board.

Bus Éireann said they could confirm that on Thursday (Thursday, March 31) "an incident occurred on a Bus Éireann Route 133 service between Wicklow and Dublin where a spray was produced by a passenger and used while on board".

“All drivers have a direct communications link to control centres, and can immediately alert a supervisor, and the gardaí if required, to any issues that may arise,” the company said in a statement.

“An Garda Síochána and the ambulance service were contacted, arrived on the scene and thankfully, no serious injuries occurred.

"This was a very unusual occurrence and Bus Éireann regrets the impact of this incident on our customers. The incident was reported to An Garda Síochána and Bus Éireann is cooperating fully with Garda enquiries.”

Bus Éireann added that it does not “tolerate any act of aggressive or abusive behaviour towards our employees or customers”.

“We continue to invest significantly to deliver our commitment to provide a safe environment for all of those who use our services,” thy added.

“Customer research shows that 93% of Bus Éireann customers feel safe and secure during their journeys.

Bus Éireann takes each incident very seriously. All are investigated by Bus Éireann in liaison with An Garda Síochána if necessary. All vehicles are fitted with internal and external CCTV cameras.

Customers can also report any incidents on board our services to our customer care line on 0818 836 611.” Gardai added that they are investigating an assault that took place at approximately 2.30pm, in Rathnew on March 31.

“No arrests have been made, investigations are ongoing,” gardai said.