A debate will be held this month for the Galway West by-election coming up this summer, with traffic expected to dominate the agenda.
A public hustings organised by Galway City Community Network will take place on Wednesday, April 15, in the Park House Hotel.
The event, hosted by Galway City Community Network (GCCN), is titled ‘Community and Public Transport’.
It takes place in partnership with the Galway LUAS campaign (GLUAS), Galway Commuter Coalition and Galway Cycling Campaign.
Organisers say incremental change is no longer enough. They want firm commitments—especially urgent progress on a preferred route for a light rail system for Galway.
“Even if current transport plans proceed, congestion is set to worsen by 2040,” says Brian Doherty of (GCCN). “Our members want ambitious solutions to chronic traffic problems. This event will show which candidates are ready to lead.”
GLUAS campaigner, Brendan Holland, says a proposed light rail could carry 13 million passengers annually. “It could also save families up to €10,000 per year by removing the need for a second car.”
Campaigners say it is essential to support Galway’s future growth, with the city’s population expected to reach 120,000 by 2040. “Major developments could deliver 20,000 homes and thousands of jobs. But without mass transit, that growth will stall,” says Holland.
Pamela Byrne of Galway Commuter Coalition says Galwegians have been trapped in traffic by a lack of ambition, vision, and courage for far too long. “This event will show whether candidates have any.”
Kevin Jennings of the Galway Cycling Campaign said Galway has seen lots of improvement, but needs comprehensive networks which are safe for users aged from 8 to 80.
“Reallocating road space will allow parents to leave their cars at home and cycle with their children, or allow teenage children to travel safely and independently.”
“The city needs protected routes between popular destinations, including schools, hospitals, transport hubs and sports clubs. But most of all, it needs solutions now.”
