Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Dublin, Cormac Devlin, has called on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to strongly reconsider its proposed timelines for the introduction of contactless payments on Dublin Bus.
Deputy Devlin's call follows remarks recently made by NTA Chief Executive, Anne Graham, who claimed it could take some years to change payment methods in Dublin as the current system on Dublin Bus is too old to manage contactless payments.
The Fianna Fáil TD for Dún Laoghaire said, "Fianna Fáil is committed to safe, efficient, convenient, affordable and environmentally sustainable transport services. Making it easier for the public to travel by sustainable modes through Dublin is critically important for addressing the climate crisis, but will also bring further benefits to the city, through relieving traffic congestion, improving the quality of our air, and enhancing the urban environment.
"However, for too long Dublin has been lagging behind other European cities when it comes to contactless payments, which would transform and encourage greater use of our public transport system. A contactless approach would also encourage visitors to our city, who may not have a Leap Card or be familiar with the ticketing system, to use public transport.
"An effortless and convenient payment method would result in faster boarding times for all passengers and is something that should be implemented without further delay."
-ENDS-
