Fianna Fáil TD for Dún Laoghaire and spokesperson on Dublin, Cormac Devlin, has welcomed the 2021 rail station lift and escalator replacement and renewal programme announced by Iarnród Éireann earlier today.
A total of 22 stations, 10 of which are in Dublin, will see lift replacements or system upgrades between now and the end of this year, in what is the second year of a multi-annual programme to improve lift performance and reliability across the network.
The 2021 programme will comprise an investment of €5.8 million, funded by the National Transport Authority, which includes the boost in Budget 2021 of an additional €2 million allocation from the Department of Transport allowing for acceleration of the programme.
Following the announcement, Deputy Devlin commented, “The upgrade of lifts in train stations is a key step towards making public transport accessible for all. Lifts which are out of service can significantly impact the ability of persons with reduced mobility to access services.
“This month, Connolly Station sees the first Changing Places toilet facility opened in the Dublin 1 postcode. Changing Places facilities are fully accessible toilets, designed to provide sufficient space and equipment for people who are not able to use toilets independently, and include features such as changing benches, hoists and privacy screens. This was developed in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann’s Disability Users Group.
“I’m also delighted to see that plans for brand new lift facilities will also be developed in Dalkey, which will ensure that the station is equipped with the most up to date standards for persons of reduced mobility.
“Rail users need a service they can rely on. For many people an out of service lift is not merely an inconvenience, but a signal to turn around and go home.
Many lift faults arise from misuse, which in turn impacts upon reliability. I understand Iarnród Éireann is also rolling out a Lift Call system which ensures lifts are monitored by CCTV to prevent access to those who seek to vandalise or damage equipment, an initiative I very much welcome,” concluded Deputy Devlin.
