Dundalk driver and Drogheda depot honoured at Bus Éireann awards

A Dundalk-based Bus Éireann driver has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to passenger services, while colleagues at Drogheda depot have also received an award for their support and solidarity during a difficult year. Denise McGuinness, who joined the company in 2025, has been named Driver Excellence Award winner for Road Passenger East, with Drogheda depot receiving the Community Award East, as part of Bus Éireann’s 2026 GEM (‘Go the Extra Mile’) Awards.

Since joining Bus Éireann in 2025, Denise has earned recognition for her professionalism, reliability and consistent approach to her work. She is dependable, operates services on time and is willing to undertake the duties required of her.

Her positive relationships with customers and colleagues have also been highlighted. Denise approaches her role with a strong sense of responsibility and brings a professional attitude to the day-to-day delivery of services.

Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer, said: “Denise represents the reliable professionalism that our customers and colleagues depend on every day. Her punctuality, flexibility and positive relationships with passengers and fellow team members make her a valued member of the operation.”

The award celebrates Denise’s contribution to service delivery and the standards she demonstrates as a Bus Éireann driver.

Additionally, the company has awarded the Community Award East to Drogheda Depot in recognition of the compassion, resilience and solidarity shown by colleagues during an exceptionally difficult year.

Following the loss of two valued colleagues the depot came together to support one another and the families affected. Colleagues checked in on each other, offered encouragement and stood together through a period of grief, demonstrating a strong sense of community and care.

The nomination also recognised the way the depot maintained its commitment to delivering an excellent service despite the personal challenges faced by the team.

Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer, said, “The response from Drogheda Depot demonstrates the importance of a workplace where people genuinely look out for one another. The care and support shown among colleagues, and towards the families, reflect a remarkable sense of community. Their resilience through a difficult year is deeply deserving of recognition.”