A Dublin TD has claimed that new congestion charges for motorists would "choke our city centres" and have a devastating impact on businesses and retailers.
Fine Gael TD Emer Higgins has raised concerns after new modelling from the National Transport Authority which suggests congestion charges of €10 for motorists, and a 400% increase on parking charges to deter cars from entering city centres. It comes as a strategy is due to be announced by the Government this week to reduce Ireland's emissions targets.
Meanwhile, the modelling also suggests potential increases in petrol and diesel costs. Deputy Higgins said: “Any plan should focus on how we continue to prioritise improving public transport infrastructure instead of punishing people out of their cars.
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“Taken in the round, congestion charges and fuel increases will also end up increasing consumer prices as it costs more to bring goods to city centres," she added.
Deputy Higgins said that we have all seen the "crippling effect" that petrol and diesel increases have had on motorists and businesses alike. She added: "Our city centres are still recovering post Covid.
"Any move to restrict motorists should be tied to capital investments ensuring that motorists have tangible alternatives to use when leaving their cars at home."
However, the Fine Gael TD noted that from a public transport point of view that reduced fares for trains, buses and the Luas have had a "positive and encouraging" effect.
Deputy Higgins said that any new plan should now focus on improving public transport for all. She said: "Any plan should focus on how we continue to prioritise improving public transport infrastructure, instead of placing further pressure on motorists.”
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