Concerns are being raised about the privatisation of a major national transport route serving the Shannonside region.
Wednesday will see the end of the Bus Eireann Dublin Airport to Galway City Express service which serviced stops in Westmeath, Roscommon and East Galway.
Private Company Aircoach has now announced the start of a similar route to begin later this week.
Concerns have been raised from both members of the public and representatives of the National Bus and Rail Union about the public service going private.
Issues raised include questions over the longevity of the service and the profit-based approach to the route.