Metrolink’s delays ‘simply unacceptable’ says Northside TD

Dublin Fingal TD Duncan Smith has said it is ‘simply unacceptable’ for MetroLink to be postponed by another ten years.

Calling for Eamon Minister Ryan to outline in detail in the Dáil why this decision has been made, Deputy Smith said the MetroLink simply must go ahead as planned this year.

Labour transport spokesperson Deputy Smith said:

“The news that MetroLink has been postponed for another decade is simply unacceptable.

“As recently as last week’s transport committee, the NTA confirmed to me that the business plan for MetroLink makes economic sense.

“Therefore the news this morning smack of a political decision to delay this desperately needed piece of infrastructure.

“This government has been dragging its heels on MetroLink from the get go. There was no commitment in the National Development Plan to a completion date and the short-termism displayed on this latest delay tactic is truly extraordinary and unacceptable.

“Metrolink was due to be the biggest of sustainable mobility projects, with at least €219 million spent on the proposals to date.

“Why is this government opting to kick the can down the road even further? We badly need Metrolink to ensure that there are sustainable travel options for people in North County Dublin.

“There is a massive infrastructure deficit on the M1 corridor and this has a knock on impact on all bus routes.

“MetroLink will not only reduce traffic from Swords to the city centre, but will also allow residents to commute quickly, cheaply and sustainably.

“Minister Ryan needs to come before the House and explain in detail what is going on here. The climate crisis is happening now, not in ten years time.

“Politics is at play with MetroLink and the communities of North County Dublin simply will not accept this.”