Fianna Fáil General Election candidate Lynda Prendergast, has voiced serious concerns about the ongoing issues affecting commuters on the Red Line Luas service, particularly those traveling between Saggart and the city centre. Prendergast highlighted persistent problems such as overcrowded trams, cancellations without prior notice, and disruptions to service that continue to impact daily commuters.
She said, “I have written to the National Transport Authority to express my deep concern over the current state of the Luas service on the Red Line. Commuters are facing significant challenges during rush hour, with trams reaching capacity before they even arrive at Cheeverstown from Saggart. This overcrowding creates an uncomfortable and often unsafe environment for passengers.”
Prendergast also pointed out the increasing number of disruptions along the Saggart-Belgard route, including frequent cancellations and unexpected changes in service. “We’re seeing trams that are bound for Saggart suddenly redirected to Tallaght without any prior notice. This leaves commuters stranded at Belgard, forced to wait for another Luas to continue their journey. It’s a daily frustration that’s adding unnecessary time to already long commutes.”
These service disruptions are particularly problematic for those commuting from the city centre toward Saggart. During off-peak times, there is no continuous Luas service between Saggart and the city centre, requiring passengers to change at Belgard.
“What may have worked in the past is no longer acceptable,” said the Fianna Fáil candidate. “With the substantial growth in residential development between Cheeverstown and Saggart, the current service is simply not sustainable. We need a reliable and uninterrupted service, especially during peak and off-peak times. It’s unacceptable that residents must routinely deal with service interruptions and extended journey times.”
Prendergast also addressed concerns raised by commuters about safety at Belgard Station. “There is a serious concern regarding the safety of passengers waiting for onward trams at Belgard. While I’m pleased to see security personnel on the Luas between Belgard and Saggart following my representations at the transport forum, it’s still not enough. The overall service needs urgent improvement.
“In February of this year, my party colleague and Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin South West John Lahart, received assurances from the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan, that a new timetable for the Red Line would be introduced early in the year. However, no changes have been implemented to date, adding to the frustration of daily commuters.
“Given the rapid growth in population in areas such as Saggart and Citywest, which are now among the fastest-growing urban areas, it’s clear that Transdev must do better. The practice of pulling trams off the Saggart line and redirecting them to Tallaght cannot continue. Our residents deserve better.”
Prendergast concluded by saying that she looks forward to receiving a response from the National Transport Authority on this pressing issue.
