LUAS fails to put adequate plan in place for mini marathon – Richmond

Fine Gael Senator, Neale Richmond, has slammed LUAS operator Transdev for their failure to put in place a proper plan for major events following chaotic scenes on Sunday before and after the excellent VHI women’s mini marathon.

Senator Richmond said he received numerous complaints from commuters attempting to make their way to the city centre and home following Sunday’s mini marathon.

“This is an issue I have raised before with Transdev and I am shocked that they haven’t learned the lessons from last year’s concerts in Croke Park and other events.

“Following the mini marathon I was inundated with calls from angry constituents who had to battle with overcrowding and mass confusion to get into the city centre and then to take the LUAS home.

“Two and a half hours before the start of the mini marathon commuters were left stranded at stops like Glencairn, Dundrum and Milltown as the trams were full to capacity, with lengthy waits between service.

“LUAS insisted on using a skeleton service despite the fact that the trams were as busy as they would normally be during rush hour.

“LUAS also failed to ensure there was adequate signage and a distinct lack of staff on the ground added to confusion for people.

“This is the start of a very busy summer in terms of concerts, events and sporting occasions scheduled to take place in Dublin. While this is great for the city, our transport infrastructure needs to be able to meet this demand.

“The women’s mini marathon is a truly fantastic event, run superbly and helping to raise so much money for so many good causes. It is a shame that Transdev didn’t match this with quality service.

“I’m calling once again on LUAS operator, Transdev, to put in place an improved plan for big events. When it comes to an event like the women’s mini marathon, with over 30,000 brilliant people taking part, perhaps as a goodwill gesture, fares could be suspended for the day?”

ENDS