Concertgoers need clear public transport plan – Boland

The National Transport Authority (NTA) must take the lead in delivering a clear public transport plan when concerts take place across Dublin, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Grace Boland said concertgoers are left often stranded after major events because of the lack of reliable and cohesive public transport.

“This weekend marks the beginning of concert season in Malahide with Kingfisher and next week Marlay Park will welcome thousands of fans to see Olivia Dean.

And more events will begin this week in Fairview Park. Fans are already planning how they’re going to get to and from the venues.

“For the concerts recently held in St. Anne’s Park, the DARTs only ran as far as Connolly Station. This is absolutely ridiculous when fans travel from all over Dublin and the rest of the country to see their favourite artists and they expect services to be running.

“Ahead of the concert, TFI had advertised on their website that customers are advised to use public transport to access the park. It’s unacceptable that our public transport system can’t deal with an increase in demand when these concerts happen.

“It lashed rain for a David Byrne concert in St Anne’s Park last Sunday. Many soaked fans afterwards said there wasn’t enough taxis to accommodate demand in the constant downpour.

“We need the NTA to ensure Irish Rail, Dublin Bus and Luas work together to put additional services on and ensure there is co-ordination with the times of their service.

“We also need to see local authorities increase their consultation with the NTA when major events are happening so that the NTA can plan ahead.

“Every year the lack of a clear cross organisation public transport plan for large scale events causes widespread disruption.

“The NTA have said it is the role of the event organiser and the licensing authority to ensure that adequate provisions are in place to get people to and from events. We cannot be passing the blame here, we need a cohesive response from event providers and public transport authorities.

“After a concert people want to get home safely and quickly. More co-operation between these organisations would help make that a reality.

“We can’t have concertgoers stranded, we must ensure a proper public transport plan if we want to continue to hold these events,” concluded Deputy Boland.