County Kildare Leader Partnership and GoCar Launch New “Community Car” Service
Kildare Town, January 28, 2025 – County Kildare Leader Partnership, in partnership with GoCar, proudly launched the Community Car service at Kildare County Development Centre. This innovative initiative is set to provide vital transportation support to individuals facing mobility challenges across County Kildare.
For many people, particularly those living in rural areas or experiencing reduced mobility, accessing essential services, attending appointments, and staying socially connected can be a challenge. The Community Car service aims to bridge this gap by offering a convenient and accessible transport solution.
A Lifeline for the Community The Community Car will initially serve residents within a 10 km radius of Kildare Town, with plans to expand countywide in the coming months. The service is designed to assist individuals who need transportation to hospital and healthcare appointments, as well as community and social events.
Booking a ride is simple—just call the dedicated phone line at 086-8183459 and speak with Vicky, our receptionist, who will arrange the journey. Volunteer drivers will then ensure a safe and comfortable door-to-door experience.
Sustainable and Accessible Travel The Community Car service is powered by an electric vehicle provided by GoCar, Ireland’s leading car-sharing brand. GoCar operates more than 700 car-sharing locations nationwide and expects to have over 900 vehicles available for rent by the hour by the end of the year. More vehicles will be added to meet increasing demand.
Joe Quirke, Head of GoCar Ireland, expressed his enthusiasm: “GoCar offers a practical alternative by giving people convenient vehicle access when needed. We are committed to providing flexible, cost-effective solutions to help communities reduce their reliance on taxis and public transport, which don’t always meet local needs. We are delighted to partner with County Kildare Leader Partnership and wish them every success with launching the Community Car.”
Grainne Cassidy, Assistant Principal Officer – Employment Programmes and Incentives, Department of Social Protection, praised the initiative, highlighting the positive collaboration between the Community Car service, Department of Social Protection and GoCar.
Paula O’Rourke, Climate Action Team Coordinator at Kildare County Council, noted: “‘Kildare County Council is proud to support this community car initiative, which plays a vital role in enhancing mobility, reducing isolation, and fostering a stronger sense of community. This initiative aligns with our commitment to sustainable and inclusive transport solutions, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of people across Kildare.’
Karen Heavey, Health Promotion Officer from the HSE, emphasized the impact of the service: “This initiative supports older people in accessing essential health appointments in and around Kildare Town and surrounding areas. It is an innovative and thoughtful service that promotes well-being, and social engagement, and helps combat loneliness.”
Karl Duffy, CEO of County Kildare Leader Partnership, shared his excitement: “We are delighted to be partnering with GoCar and collaborating with the HSE, Department of Social Protection, and Climate Action in Kildare County Council to bring this project to fruition. We expect the service to be very popular and are thrilled to offer this much-needed support to the most vulnerable in our community. I want to thank our volunteer drivers for their commitment and also acknowledge Older Voice Kildare for their dedication in advancing this initiative.”
How to Book Community members looking to use the Community Car service can call Vicky on 086-8183459 or email car@countykildarelp.ie to arrange a trip.
This initiative is a significant step towards a more inclusive and connected community, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, has access to essential services and social opportunities.
For Further information, please contact Catherine Connolly, Communications Officer catherine@countykildarelp.ie – 086-0363685
Photo Credit Martin Connelly l-r
Mary Minogue Enterprise Support Worker, CKLP, Vicky Behan Receptionist Community Car, Daniel Ralston Sales Manager GoCar Ireland, Peggy O’Dwyer, Mayor Of Kildare, Grainne Cassidy, Assistant Principal Officer – Employment Programmes and Incentives, Department of Social Protection, Joe Quirke, Head of GoCar Ireland, Paula O’Rourke, Climate Action Co-Ordinator, Kildare County Council, Karl Duffy, CEO, County Kildare Leader Partnership, Terri Devlin Kildare County Council, Christopher Morrison CE Supervisor CKLP, and Karen Heavy Health Promotion & Improvement/Health & Wellbeing Manager, HSE.