Measures for reducing traffic disruption during implementation of Transport 21

Date: 02 March 2006


Dáil Question No: 180 To ask the Minister for Transport if, in view of the need for early traffic reduction measures to coincide with the inevitable traffic disruption of Transport 21, he will seek special tax incentives, similar to the tax saver scheme, for users of van pools. - Olivia Mitchell.

Response
by the Minister for Transport
(Martin Cullen)

The implementation of the major infrastructure projects in Transport 21 will have some traffic impact during construction and major traffic benefits once operational. The various implementing agencies are acutely conscious of the need to minimise traffic impact during construction and will develop appropriate traffic management strategies in consultation with the local authorities, as traffic authorities.

On a wider front, my Department is looking at a range of possible options for promoting a more sustainable approach to transport, including the use of fiscal incentives. If it is felt that fiscal incentives such as the one referred to by the Deputy could play a significant role in promoting sustainable solutions, proposals will be put to the Minister for Finance for consideration as part of the annual Budget preparations.

The implementation of the major infrastructure projects in Transport 21 will have some traffic impact during construction and major traffic benefits once operational. The various implementing agencies are acutely conscious of the need to minimise traffic impact during construction and will develop appropriate traffic management strategies in consultation with the local authorities, as traffic authorities. On a wider front, my Department is looking at a range of possible options for promoting a more sustainable approach to transport, including the use of fiscal incentives. If it is felt that fiscal incentives such as the one referred to by the Deputy could play a significant role in promoting sustainable solutions, proposals will be put to the Minister for Finance for consideration as part of the annual Budget preparations.