Madam, - It was with dismay that I read of the approaching abolition of the 48/48A bus routes, due to the success of the Luas.
The amalgamation with the 14/14A routes will do nothing for the people who live in Milltown/Ramleh Park/Windy Arbour/Dundrum Road areas, and who depend on the 48A for transport either to Dundrum/Ballinteer or to the city.
I am tired of being asked about the convenience of the Luas - I live at least a 15-minute walk away from the nearest Luas stop; in fact, many people drive their cars to the Luas stop, but that is of no assistance to those without cars. Also, the 48A bus takes one into the city - the Luas goes as far as St Stephen's Green - is this a way of getting more money from the passenger, who will have to pay for yet another bus journey?
I would appeal to Dublin Bus to reconsider this drastic move; a reduction in the frequency of the 48a route might be acceptable, especially if the buses were not timed to depart the city at the exact time as the 44 routes! At a time when an enormous shopping complex is preparing to open in Dundrum it seems short sighted to cancel a bus route leading directly to it. - Yours, etc.,
M.G. GARGAN,
Rowan Hall,
Millbrook Court,
Milltown,
Dublin 6.
Madam, - On the Luas approaching Dundrum the pre-recorded female voice says, "Now change for Ballinteer, Blackrock, Dun Laoghaire and Enniskerry".
I wonder has that young woman ever stood at a bus stop in Dundrum waiting for a 75 for Dun Laoghaire or for a 44 for Enniskerry. Had she done so perhaps her tone of voice would be a little less confident.
Perhaps she should say: "Now change for Dun Laoghaire or Enniskerry but be prepared for a little delay. It may be wise to buy a newspaper, bring a friend for entertainment or take the opportunity to meditate with one eye open lest a bus surprise you". - Yours, etc.,
DAVID S. KELLY,
Clonard Park,
Sandyford,
Dublin 16.