Transport Minister Says Luas Is A ‘Victim Of Its Own Success’

Transport Minister Shane Ross has claimed the Luas is a "victim of its own success" following recent traffic chaos at College Green. 

Ten more Dublin Bus routes are being diverted away from the congested area next month in an effort to reduce delays, it was announced yesterday. 

Today the Oireachtas Transport Committee will meet with Transdev, Dublin Bus and Dublin City Council to discuss solutions to the congestion in the area. 

Speaking in the Dáil last night, Ross denied claims from opposition that there had been a lack of "forward planning" for the Luas extension. 

"I have been advised by the NTA that passenger numbers on the Luas Green Line have increased by over 24% since the start of Luas Cross City last December," he said. 

"That's a huge, sudden increase in the number of people using our public transport system. You could say that the Luas has been a temporary victim of its own success."

"But while it is welcomed that so many new customers are using the extended Green Line, this success presents new challenges. It has meant that, at certain times of the day, some trams are operating at capacity. However, this is actively and robustly being addressed."

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