Metrolink should be extended to Rathfarnham, Knocklyon and Firhouse – Brophy

Following today’s announcement by the National Transport Authority (NTA) to terminate the new Metrolink at Charlemont, Fine Gael TD Colm Brophy is calling for the areas of Rathfarnham, Knocklyon and Firhouse to be serviced by Metrolink now that the original route is not going ahead.

“I am asking the NTA to examine the possibility of diverting the existing boring machines from Charlemont to the areas of Rathfarnham, Knocklyon and Firhouse in order to extend the proposed metro service to people living in Dublin South West.

“For many years these parts of Dublin South West have not been well serviced by public transport. With significant new housing developments coming on stream in areas such as Ballycullen and Stocking Lane there is now more than ever a real opportunity to have a metro service for Dublin South West.“Traditionally we have heard repeated assertions from both the NTA and Transport Infrastructure Ireland that there is not enough demand for a Metro service to this area.

“Having spoken to local people and knowing the pressure on existing public transport, I challenge this assertion.

“The success of the Luas Green line is a testament to the idea that if quality public transport alternatives are provided then people will use them. And this means more people leaving the car at home which is exactly what we should be promoting as we seem to mitigate Ireland’s emissions.

“I really think we can be more ambitious with Metrolink and it can serve more commuters than is currently envisaged.

“A detailed analysis of the population in the Dublin South West area needs to be conducted to ascertain the viability of the providing a Metro service for local commuters there.”