WATCH: Ennis to Limerick line now closed due to flooding until further notice

Bus transfers are in operation between Ennis and Limerick after flood waters have risen significantly at Ballycar on the railway line over the St Patrick's Weekend.

As a result, the line between Limerick and Ennis is now closed and services are suspended, until further notice.

Iarnród Éireann has apologised for the inconvenience caused.

Bus transfers are in operation between Limerick and Ennis in both directions for all services, meaning Limerick to Ennis and Ennis to Limerick services are replaced by bus, and Limerick to Galway and Galway to Limerick involve a bus transfer between Limerick and Ennis, and train between Ennis and Galway.

While this is the first time in four years that the line has closed due to flooding, the railway track at Ballycar Lough has flooded on a number of occasions in recent years.

The flooding occurs due to the cumulative affect of rainfall, and the slow drainage associated within Ballycar’s geological and hydrogeological environment. As a result, the line is expected to be closed for many weeks.

Iarnród Éireann will monitor flood levels which are continuing to rise, and advise customers on likely service restoration dates when flood levels begin to recede.