David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The news today that charges on most toll roads are to increase to their maximum level from 1 January is another blow to workers and families. It comes on top of the record fuel prices that motorists are paying. As the Tánaiste knows, workers and families are struggling to get by and these toll increases will really hurt commuters. Tolls disproportionately impact those living in rural areas who are forced to use a car because public transport is not an option. During the pandemic the taxpayer had to step in and pay the toll operators millions. Now, due to these gold-plated Fianna Fáil-era contracts, motorists will be forced to fork out even more. Last month the M3 toll operator alone announced a profit of €11 million. These firms are not struggling to get by. Will the Government engage with the operators? Has it asked them to forgo this hike?

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