Minister Josepha Madigan highlights need to “future-proof” Dublin public transport reforms

Minister Josepha Madigan has called for public transport agencies, including the National Transport Authority and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, to ensure that reforms to public transport in Dublin are properly “future-proofed”.

The Minister said that ongoing reforms of public transport should take account of the rapidly growing population in many parts of the county and the implications for future public transport demand.

Minister Madigan said: “Investing in public transport is vital order to build sustainable communities and help people avoid traffic gridlock in the mornings.

“However, it is crucial that reforms to public transport take account of the growing population in many parts of Dublin. Current reforms should be designed not only with current demand in mind but also the expected increased demand in future years.

“In recent weeks and months we have seen the publication of new bus routes under the Bus Connects project and plans for increased capacity on the Luas.

“In addition we are seeing a big investment in safe cycling infrastructure by Local Authorities in many parts of Dublin. The aim of these projects is to tackle some of the public transport pressures that currently exist for many commuters in Dublin.

“However with many new housing developments planned or underway in Dublin at the moment, including in places such as Cherrywood and Dundrum, it is vital that public transport reforms address expected future demand, as well as current demand.

“I would call on our public transport agencies to provide this reassurance to commuters and see where current plans could be readjusted if necessary.

“Ultimately we do not want to have to undergo further large-scale reforms and rerouting of public transport again in a few years’ time if the expected future demand can be anticipated and addressed now.

“I urge our public transport agencies to ensure a long-term view is at the heart of their plans for the future.”

ENDS