All pensioners in possession of a free travel pass will be allowed to use it at all times, including rush hour, on the new Luas system when it comes into operation, it was announced today.
The announcement was made during the Luas safety-awareness day, which is being held in Dublin's Middle Abbey Street today. Tram carriages are open to the public from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. and safety experts will be on hand to answer any queries.
Prospective passengers inspecting the Luas at Middle Abbey Street today Photo: Niina Hepojoki
The safety campaign comes ahead of the opening of the Sandyford tram line on June 30th, which will introduce potential traffic risks around the city.
"Introduction of a new transport system will always include some potential risks and today's purpose is to bring more awareness about these risks in order to mitigate against them," said Mr Ciaran Mac Samhrain, Rolling Stock manager at the Railway Procurement Agency.
He was outside the tram carriages on Middle Abbey Street, handing out information leaflets and violet Luas balloons.
New bye-laws and signeage will be in place when the Luas begins its operations. For instance, cyclists will not be allowed to cycle on tram-only streets and pedestrians should cross the tramways only in places where they see a "Look Both Ways" sign.
"Motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, everyone really, should keep in mind that the trams don't have steering wheels. They cannot make a turn to avoid you if you are obstructing their way," said Mr Mac Samhrain.
The completion of the Luas tram system has been anxiously awaited, particularly due to the disruption its construction has caused on Dublin Streets.
Mr Christy Hynes, who owns a business on Middle Abbey Street, came along to visit the Luas carriages and said that the road works have been hugely disruptive. "It will be a huge improvement when the tram line opens. The construction works have caused chaos on Middle Abbey Street."
"It looks very impressive and hopefully will bring more people to the area when it is up and running," he said.
Mr Jamie McCormack and Mr John Kirk were also visiting the Luas carriages. Mr McCormack said that Luas will be very "handy" for him and he will be using the service. Mr John Kirk, who is a cyclist, says that he can't see himself using the trams much unless he can bring his bike inside the carriages.
"No bikes or pets are allowed inside the Luas carriages," said Mr Mac Samhrain. "The only exception is for guide-dogs."
Mr John Barry's first impressions of the trams were positive. "Very comfortable and very fast. I welcome anything that will get us through the awful traffic in this city."