Dublin public transport and Luas capacity
After being fitted in late, Senator Richmond asked for a debate on public transport in Dublin, especially congestion on the Luas. He said passengers at Sandyford struggle to board at rush hour and the system needs improvement.
I appreciate this opportunity to speak and the Leas-Chathaoirleach fitting me in when I arrived in the Chamber slightly late.
Comment on this
I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for that.
I wish to raise the issue of public transport provision primarily in Dublin. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to come into the House for us to have a substantive debate on public transport provision in Dublin. The key issue as it relates to my area is with respect to the Luas. Since the Luas has been operational, it has become a victim of its own success. People in Sandyford have to get the Luas four or five stops out of town to be guaranteed that they can get on the Luas at rush hour. We need to have a proper debate to make sure that public transport is adequate in this city, that we are meeting the demands of a growing population and that we will be able to factor in the increased housing provision and increased office provision to make sure that all transport modes, particularly the Luas, are up to standard. We should debate that issue as soon as possible.