Dublin To Introduce Congestion Charges

London Style congestion charges could be introduced to Dublin according to new plans unveiled today.

‘Pay as you drive’ plans are also in the pipeline for using main roads as politicians try to remedy the traffic problem, which is bringing Dublin to a standstill.

Average speeds in urban areas in morning peak hour Dublin will have dropped from 13kmh in 2006, to 8kmh in 2016 whilst increased dependence on car travel contributes to obesity and pollution increases continue to cause damage to health and contribute to acute and chronic diseases.

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey who believes Ireland is over reliant on its cars is publishing the document called Sustainable Transport and Travel.

The Government is committed to spending over €16bn improve public transport such as introducing the Metro, Luas extensions, new buses and rail cars.

Mr Dempsey said yesterday: "If we continue our current travel patterns, traffic congestion will increase and quality of life and the quality of our environment will decline. We can't allow that to happen."

"We need to see a major shift to public transport and we're investing to make this an attractive option. We need to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions in this sector, and we need to ease congestion and free up valuable time for commuters," he added.

Other options being outlined today include more flexible working time, workplace travel plans, car sharing, car clubs, school travel plans, including walking and buses, more integrated transport planning, better walking and cycle routes, and increased use of park and ride facilities.

See: Dublin To Follow London On Road Charges?

(DW)