Madam, - The census figures reveal that Balbriggan in North Co Dublin has seen its population increase by 50 per cent in the past four years. It is now the second-largest town in the Fingal area. Why, then, is it so often forgotten when it comes to planning for crucial matters like amenities and transport?
The Dundalk-Drogheda-Dublin train service, which serves Balbriggan, is notorious for overcrowding and Bus Éireann's corresponding route might kindly be described as "erratic".
An extension of the Metro to Swords has been mooted - but why not bring it to Balbriggan as well? It is time for some joined-up thinking in the light of these CSO figures.
Otherwise, Balbriggan and places like it will become nothing but poorly served and over-populated commuter towns. - Yours, etc,
LUKE O'NEILL, Islington, LondonN1.