COMMUTERS who will be using public transport should ensure they have an input into the new Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy.
That’s according to Limerick City West Social Democrats Councillor Elisa O’Donovan who has raised concerns about what she claimed was the exclusion of commuters from early consultations.
“There has been real disappointment with similar strategies in both Cork and Galway,” Cllr O’Donovan stated. “In Galway we saw the Road Safety Authority (RSA) as a major contributor to the strategy, while grassroots commuter groups were excluded from consultations.
“This is very concerning considering the RSA are essentially a lobbying group for the car industry. The strategies for both Galway and Cork fail to meet several targets laid out in the Government’s Smarter Travel policy for 2009 – 2020, which sets a target of ten per cent for cycling for 2020. The strategies for Cork and Galway have a very unambitious target of only four per cent by 2040.
“We need public consultation as early as possible, as national organisations have repeatedly shown they do not appreciate, understand or care for Limerick’s transport needs.
“There must be a proportionate amount of funding for all modes of transport, and that has not been reflected in other cities’ plans.”
Cllr O’Donovan met with Limerick Council’s Director of Services, Brian Kennedy last week to lobby for public involvement in the early stages of the strategy, something she also called for at this month’s Metropolitan District meeting of Limerick City and County Council.
“I have now received commitment that key local stakeholders will be invited to consult with the National Transport Authority and the Local Authority on the draft strategy. This is likely to be done through the Public Participation Network.
“I urge interest groups and citizens in Limerick to contact the NTA and Limerick Council requesting to be involved at the start of what is a crucial process for the city and county.”
