– Overcrowded LUAS trams, delayed buses, congested traffic and poor road conditions for cyclists –
Fianna Fáil Dublin Spokesperson, John Lahart TD has said that cyclists, pedestrians, commercial traffic, private motorists and public transport users are all suffering as a consequence of city and suburban congestion. Deputy Lahart made the comments in advance of Fianna Fáil’s Dáil Private Members Business motion due to be debated in the Dáil later this evening.
The motion focuses on the ongoing citywide traffic congestion caused largely by the lack of forward planning to allow for the addition of longer length carriages which are operating on the LUAS Cross City. He said, “Two months on since the launch of the LUAS Cross City and there are continued delays despite the introduction of longer trams intended to alleviate overcrowding. These longer trams are causing stress for passengers but for motorists also.
“Yet, this situation was broadly predicted. Commuters are deeply frustrated that it was well warned these difficulties would occur. “To date, the Minister for Transport, Shane Ross has ignored his duty to provide safer conditions for all road and transport users. A major International Airport, increasing tourism and a poor capacity transport system that is bursting at the seams is no high standard for a European Capital city.
“There is simply not enough space for LUAS trams, Dublin Bus, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians in and around the city centre. This is subsequently having an adverse impact on the arterial roads in the Capital and causing widespread congestion. “Overall, bus journey times have increased by up to 110% while widespread congestion in the capital now costs the Irish economy in the region of €358 million a year. “It is clear that there are severe problems that require Government intervention; this is compounded by the fact that Dublin City Council’s own Director of Traffic echoes the same sentiment.
He concluded, “Our motion is calling for short and medium term changes to address congestion and to form a sustainable public transport service in Dublin.”
