Shuttle bus service available for Blessing of the Graves

A dedicated shuttle bus service will be in place for the Annual Blessing of the Graves at St Catherine’s Cemetery, Kilcully next Sunday.

The shuttle service will operate two 15-seater buses between Delanys GAA Club and St Catherine’s Cemetery, from 2.15pm to 4.30pm. No booking required.

Residents of the area had highlighted the difficulty for older people and those with mobility challenges in accessing the cemetery, and the graves of their loved ones, for the annual blessing ceremony.

Sinn Féin councillor Michelle Gould confirmed that there would be a shuttle bus running for the first time, following a motion she tabled with Cork City Council.

“I am delighted that I was able to work constructively with Cork City Council officials to put a practical solution in place.

“This shuttle bus service will make a real difference — helping people get as close as possible to the cemetery while also easing traffic congestion and improving pedestrian safety in the area,” she said.

“The Blessing of the Graves is an important and emotional day for many families across our community, and I wanted to ensure that everyone who wishes to attend can do so safely and comfortably.”

Ms Gould expressed her gratitude to Cork City Council, Age Friendly Cork City and Delany Rovers GAA Club, who will be making their facilities available as a car park on the day, for their co-operation.

This will be the first year such a service has been provided, but Ms Gould said she hopes this initiative can serve as a model to be expanded to Curraghkippane, Rathcooney, and other cemeteries in the future.