THERE were calls from deputies on both sides of the House lord extensive consultation before going ahead with the light rail system, LUAS.
The Fianna Fail leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, during resumed debate on the Light Rail Bill, said it was amazing to contrast the furore that surrounded the proposed demolition of homes for the eastern by pass with the acceptance that similar action should be taken for a light rail system" I just do not understand the inconsistency of people who regard knocking down houses in Clanbrassil Street for road widening as a social crime but knocking down houses in Arran Quay for a tram as a social blessing."
He welcomed the Dublin Transport Initiative but said he would oppose giving any State company draconian powers that allowed them to ride roughshod over local communities and businesses.
Planning for the Ballymun line must be accelerated. He had doubts about the proposed light rail to Tallaght. Construction of the line could lead to the loss of 600 jobs in several businesses. A limited DART extension using sting rallies through the north, city to Tallaght should be examined.
He did not want further delays but there was still time to consider alternative plans. He called for intensive reflection on the best way forward in consultation with the EU Commission and local communities.
The Progressive Democrats spokesman on transport, Mr Robert Molloy, welcomed the LUAS but said the Dundrum line should be extended to the Sandyford Industrial Estate. The north side line must also be included in phase one of the project and extended to serve Dublin Airport.
A system complete with underground sections in the city centre would provide a modern and efficient rapid transit service covering both sides of the city, Mr Molloy said. He added that its should be open to private sector involvement. At the very least, it should be put out to competitive tender rather than giving CIE exclusive management of the whole project.
Mr Jim Mitchell (FG, Dublin Central) said the project was good for Dublin provided there was full consultation, sensible routes eg and the system was inter linked to the DART and the bus service. A system that was not properly integrated would lead to, greater traffic problems.
He did not agree with the rigidly fixed deadline on the public inquiry. The Government appeared to have embraced only" part of the concept, limiting it the amount of money available.
Ms Frances Fitzgerald (FG, Dublin South East) said it was important that TDs rallied behind the project to ensure that it was implemented within the timeframe of European funding. Failure to do so would result in Dublin losing out once again. Its was vital, however, that public consultation be meaningful and that CIE made sure that was so.
Mr Eric Byrne (DL, Dublin South Central) said affected communities must be consulted and the impact on Dublin's environment must be taken into account.
Mr Tony Gregory (Ind, Dublin Central) said no attempt had been made to have effective consultation which would avoid the flash points that would inevitably arise. There were alternative routes in some places but the planners had not even looked at them.
Debate on the Bill continues.
