More ambitious public transport investment must be the bedrock of the new Dublin Transport Strategy

Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, today called for greater ambition on public transport for Dublin following the publication from the National Transport Authority of an updated Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area.

Ibec Dublin & Mid-East spokesperson, Aidan Sweeney, said: “Dublin is far too car dependent for most of its journeys. Pre-Covid, Dublin was the 15th most congested city in the world, with commuters spending 154 hours in gridlock, over one working week annually spent stuck in traffic. More sustainable modes of transport such as walking, cycling, and public transport must be prioritised to reduce the share of commuter trips taken by car. Not only would this reduce emissions, but it would lead to increased productivity and an improved quality of life for residents and workers through shorter commutes, better air quality, and more leisure time.

“Dublin’s transport network must be better connected, integrated, and efficient. However, significant delays to the Metrolink project and the Dart+ project, which includes Dart Underground, were first highlighted in the recently published National Development Plan. The proposed Dublin Transport strategy lacks the investment required in large-scale public transport projects, in addition to active travel investments such as footpaths and cycle-lanes. It is difficult to see how a modal shift can be achieved without such investment occurring over the next two decades. 

“Enhanced public transport provision can allow people to choose where they want to live and work, rather than having these decisions dictated by circumstance. It will support the compact, urban growth strategy needed for the metropolitan area. Enabling Dublin to be better functioning, more sustainable and vibrant will ensure sustainable economic growth and social advancement.”