Naas Fianna Fáil Candidate Terry Dignan has said that both short-term and long-term solutions are needed to improve the services for the thousands of Naas Residents who commute to work in Dublin every day.
Terry’s comments come on the back of a Public meeting Terry and James Lawless hosted on Thursday 18th April in Lawlor’s Hotel which focussed on public transport issues for local commuters out of which Terry and James have set up an action group with over twenty people signed up who want to see change.
Terry said, “James gave a very detailed update on the plans for the improvement in the Rail services. We had a pragmatic discussion on issues such as overcrowding on trains, lack of parking space, inadequate timetables, disability access and the feeder-bus service.”
“We also talked about short-term solutions such as having trains retrofitted with grab-handles and poles to improve safety. Longer-term solutions which James has been working on include extending the short-hop fare zone to Newbridge to ease demand at Sallins, and increasing the available Rail stock.”
Terry concluded, “I hope to be able to continue working with James on these and other issues if elected”
James Lawless commented, “I welcome this long overdue investment in Irish rail services, which is now serving a record number of passengers each year. It is vital to invest in Ireland’s public transport, if we are to reduce the congestion and environmental pollution that is plaguing our country. While the funding for new carriages is to be welcomed, it is disappointing that the first contract, for 41 new carriages, is not due to be awarded until the end of the year.”
Cllr Kelly professed herself very pleased with the large numbers that attended and encouraged local people to have their say on the proposals by making a submission to Kildare Country Council by the 18th of January.