Sir, – I am writing to express my dismay at the proposal to restrict traffic through the centre of Dublin ("Radical plan to remove cars from Dublin city centre unveiled", June 10th). I am a disabled driver, I cannot use public transport as I am now 60 years of age, and when out of my car I use either crutches or wheelchair. If I use crutches, I can only walk short distances, and if I choose to use my wheelchair I have trouble negotiating my way through the streets.
One thing being overlooked is my right and other disabled people’s right to free movement, and indeed our right to access employment; if this proposal takes effect, we shall be effectively excluded from the city centre.
Even if I could access public transport, a situation is now arising where if there is a child’s buggy on an accessible Dublin bus, someone in a wheelchair can be turned away. This is ridiculous.
Ireland and indeed Dublin is fast becoming a very unwelcoming place for the old and disabled, and these people are very fast becoming further marginalised, and nobody in authority seems to give a damn. – Yours, etc,
JOE ROE,
Dublin 12.
Sir, – I welcome the radical changes put forward by Dublin City Council in its transport study. However, I question the proposed removal of trees opposite Trinity on College Green and suggest that preserving such street-enhancing “greenery” should be paramount. – Yours, etc,
FRANK BYRNE,
Terenure,
Dublin 6W.