Sir, - I am compelled to express my annoyance and frustration at the recent Government decision on the Luas transport system. In common with thousands of fellow commuters I have to suffer daily traffic delays, morning and evening. I wish to address my comments to the responsible Minister, Mrs Mary O'Rourke.
There is no need for Luas to traverse the city centre either on or underground. The purpose of the system is to convey commuters from the suburbs to the city and vice-verse. Therefore the airport line should terminate at Parnell Square; the Tallaght line at Jervis St; and the Sandyford line at St Stephen's Green. A free shuttle bus service could operate from the three terminals with two or three set down stops in the city centre, the cost of this service to be factored into the Luas ticket. Currently thousands of commuters filter into the city centre quite easily from the DART service at Connolly, Tara and Pearse stations.
This suggestion if implemented would have the following results: A much lower cost than the Government plan (at least £100m); no need for further investigations and delays; relief of the disruption fears of city centre traders and Dublin Chamber of Commerce; provision of the much needed service sooner rather than later.
After years of political prevaricating, waffle and humbug it is now time for action. Please, please, get the job done. - Yours, etc., Tony Tynan,
Brighton Avenue, Foxrock, Co Dublin.