TD for Dublin South West Seán Crowe has said that Sinn Féin’s plan to invest significantly in our public transport system would drive down carbon emissions and create a safer, affordable, more accessible public transport network.
Teachta Crowe said “It’s time to invest in public transport to deliver a system that is reliable, affordable and safe. Underinvestment in our public transport by government after government has resulted in a system that isn’t fit for purpose and people in South Dublin are paying the price through unreliable, patchy services.
“Sinn Féin’s plan sets out how to secure these vital services to meet communities’ needs. We can invest in communities, deliver high-quality services and move towards a more sustainable environment. “In order to encourage more people onto public transport, we need to address the underlying problems of cost, accessibility, reliability, and safety.
“The price of a train journey for a family can be prohibitive, while the monthly cost of commuting is eating into the already stretched finances of workers. “Sinn Féin are proposing to make the 20% fare reduction permanent and cut the cost of tickets for under 18s by 50%. This would make public transport more attractive and affordable, for more people. “We are calling for the 20% fare reduction to be extended to Commercial Bus Operators, who provide important connectivity in the regions, but who have been forgotten about by this government.
“For those with a disability, using public transport can still be a nightmare. Broken lifts, inaccessible bus stops or having to give 24 hours’ notice of travel is still a reality for many. “Over a five-year period, we would deliver the total investment needed to make our train stations, bus stations and bus stops fully wheelchair accessible.
“We also need to address the anti-social behaviour that puts people off using buses, trams and trains. Therefore, instead of just talking about it, we have included proposals to establish a public transport policing unit.
“Our progressive proposals show that we can cut emissions, whilst also delivering social and economic benefits for citizens at the same time. Sinn Féin’s plan shows how this can be delivered. The government must now act on our proposals to overhaul public transport and ensure it meets our community’s needs. It’s time for reliable, affordable, safe public transport.”
