There's a call for social distancing measures on public transport to be enforced to stop it becoming a 'free-for-all'.

Newstalk's Jess Kelly says she's had some teenagers swear and shout at her for asking them to follow the social distancing guidelines on trams or buses.

It comes as more people return to travelling on public transport as businesses reopen.

Bus, tram and train operators have introduced various social distancing measures, including using large signs to block off a majority of seats.

Commuters are also being urged to wear face coverings if they can.

Jess, who has been travelling on public transport regularly over the past few weeks and months, says as it seems it's "a bit of a free-for-all" on trams and buses in Dublin.

She told The Hard Shoulder: "I've had about seven or eight incidents.

"There was one time when I was on a bus and I was sitting at the back of the bus... two teenage lads got on the bus, sat right next to me.

"I said 'lads, there's a reason why those signs are there'. They started swearing at me, and kept on shouting at me as I moved down the bus to move away from them.

Jess says people shouldn't be made to feel 'unsafe or intimidated' for trying to play by the rules.

She said: "I know I'm not a martyr, because I'm coming in to do a little bit on the radio. But that's not the point - I'm coming in to do my job.

"I'm just fed up - do I have to get into a scrap with somebody every time I want to get the Luas home after a work day?"

Jess contacted Luas operators after one incident in particular, when a group of several teenagers stood around here and 'rolled their eyes' when she asked them to move.

Luas says they're encouraging social distancing, but they cannot enforce it.

They do have staff at stops and on trams to encourage people to follow the guidelines.

Jess told Ivan: "I would feel better if there was a level of enforcement on public transport, in terms of at least one customer assurance officer on every tram. I know that would be a big operation, but I think it would go a long way.

"I'd also ask people to have the conversation with the teenagers and with yourself - just be sound.

"Think about others - it's very simple to do."