Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Mid-West, Mark Ward, has reacted to the announcement of a draft transport strategy which was signed off by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan and the wider cabinet yesterday. The strategy includes measures to phase out the diesel rebate scheme and the introduction of congestion charges for those using roads across rural and urban areas.
Teachta Ward said:
“In the four years of this government, the Green Party Minister has continued to push an anti-motorist agenda at every turn.
“He has overseen the continued rise of toll charges – there were two rises over six months last year alone which cost motorists an additional €200 per year. The government are also overseeing yet another rise in excise tax at the end of the month.
“There is a very clear agenda by the Green Party Minister – supported by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael – to punish the motorist.
“I want to be clear – Sinn Féin’s approach to transport, whether public or private, is one that has decarbonisation at its core. The difference with our approach and governments approach is we are practical.
“The draft transport strategy approved by the government is heavily based on the ULEZ system currently in operation in London and Minister Ryan has been open about that.
“What the Minister is failing to grasp is that the London public transport system and the Dublin Mid-West one are worlds apart.
“We can all agree that the public transport system in London is in place for decades, is well run, and offers commuters a reliable option to get to their destination – whether it be school, work, or medical appointments. There is little need for a private car there because of this.
“Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Dublin Mid-West or the wider public transport system across Ireland as a whole.
“Minister Ryan is at pains to tell people the enforcement of this strategy will be the responsibility of local authorities. Now more than ever, Dublin Mid-West will need representatives at local level that will be a strong voice for a common sense approach.
“This government is heavy on good intentions, but light when it comes to practical actions and solutions.
“This draft strategy is yet another way for this out of touch government to punish motorists in Dublin Mid-West for using the only form of transport they feel able to rely on.”
Sinn Féin Dublin Mid West 