Headline: Women Drivers Surge at Dublin Bus, Open Days Set for November
Dublin Bus is witnessing a remarkable transformation, with the number of women signing up as drivers increasing by an impressive 142% over the past five years. As part of their commitment to enhancing diversity within the workforce, Dublin Bus will host open days on November 9 and November 23, aiming to attract even more women to take the wheel.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Currently, Dublin Bus employs approximately 3,000 drivers hailing from 85 different countries. According to Vivienne Kavanagh, the company’s talent development and diversity manager, just 7.3% of those drivers, or 219 individuals, are women. This figure marks a significant rise from a mere 3.8% reported in 2019. Such a dramatic increase showcases not only a shift in recruitment strategies but also a growing interest among women in pursuing careers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
New Faces, New Stories
Among the inspiring stories of women joining Dublin Bus is Ciara Pender from Citywest, who embarked on her driving career in 2023. Previously the owner of a hair salon, Ciara sought a major career change and was encouraged by her mother to attend one of Dublin Bus’s open days. “I just wanted a big change,” she shared with EVOKE’s sister publication, the Irish Daily Mail. Though initially apprehensive about entering a male-dominated environment, Ciara now relishes her role, describing the feeling of driving as "really empowering."
“I would never look back,” Ciara added, noting that while male passengers may be surprised to find a woman behind the wheel, she has never felt treated differently in her role.
Overcoming Challenges
Carla Redmond, a Brittas native who joined Dublin Bus in 2020, is another testament to the transformative power of this opportunity. After encountering personal challenges that led to the closure of her mechanic’s workshop, she decided to take action for her family’s financial security. “I needed to secure our savings which were disappearing,” she explained.
At 50 years old, Carla registered for an open day, feeling a mix of uncertainty and hope. “I was going: ‘Oh God, I’m not sure about this,’” she recalled. With the support of the welcoming instructors, she quickly found that driving a bus was similar to operating a car, alleviating her initial fears. Carla’s story illustrates not just personal growth but also the importance of finding stable, fulfilling employment during tough times.
Attractive Compensation and Work Culture
Dublin Bus offers competitive starting salaries for drivers, beginning at €839.76 per week, which can rise to €972.31 after six years of service. Additionally, drivers enjoy a structured five-day work week, including shift premiums for weekend work.
Employee benefits include:
- Pension Plan: Long-term financial security
- Subsidized Medical Scheme: Health care support
- Paid Maternity Leave: Family-friendly policies
- Access to Gym Facilities at every depot: Promoting overall well-being
For those seeking part-time opportunities, Dublin Bus provides roles starting at €21.53 per hour, requiring a commitment of Sundays and an additional day depending on operational demands.
Join the Movement: Open Days Ahead
The upcoming recruitment open days on Saturday, November 9, and Saturday, November 23, present an excellent opportunity for women to step into the driver’s seat—literally and figuratively. Those interested in exploring a career with Dublin Bus can register via the company’s website at Dublin Bus.
Diversity within the workforce is essential for any thriving industry, and Dublin Bus is taking strides to ensure that women are represented on the roads of Dublin. As the statistics and personal stories reveal, the journey toward inclusiveness is not just about numbers—it’s about empowering individuals and creating a vibrant community.
Have you or someone you know considered a career with Dublin Bus? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
