Letter 1:
It’s undeniable that Mary O’Rourke played an crucial role in the growth of our country’s tech sector, however, her inability to invest on a similar level in public transit in Greater Dublin cannot be overlooked. During her tenure as the Minister responsible for public transportation, she supported the 1998 government’s decision to build two separate light rail lines in the capital city. Now, a quarter of a century later, these Luas lines still lack connectivity for the convenience of passengers. Her term in public enterprise is essentially known for her reluctance to challenge influential parties. These same parties are now supporting the MetroLink, a €12 billion rail transport venture that will not be integrated with either the Luas or the Dart heavy rail systems. The international disapproval of our infrastructure investment strategies is not shocking as a result of such developments.
Letter 2:
In a recent conversation with the Oireachtas Transport Committee, Irish Rail’s CEO Joe Meade revealed plans to build a quadruple railway track from Connolly to Malahide stations. He also expressed that this could potentially open up the possibility for a railway connection from the northern line at Clongriffin to Dublin Airport. This abruptly raises the question; is this the end for the postponed Metro North or will there come a time in the future where we have dual railway links to a downsized Dublin Airport?