Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 269: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will bring forward interim measures to alleviate road traffic congestion in anticipation of Transport 21 with particular reference to addressing the most serious needs in this area at the earliest possible date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6902/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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One of the main objectives of Transport 21 is to alleviate traffic congestion. This will be achieved by providing vastly improved national road network that bypasses major towns and by providing a public transport system that acts as an attractive alternative to the private car.

As Transport 21 progresses and more projects are completed, the level of congestion on our roads will reduce. Already significant strides have been made since the launch of Transport 21. A record number of road projects were completed and commenced in 2006. Increased capacity has been provided on both the intercity and suburban rail networks.

Funding has been provided to both Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann for additional bus capacity and there is continuing substantial investment in bus priority measures in Dublin and the regional cities. The trams on the Luas Red Line are being extended to provide 40% extra capacity. My Department recently approved the purchase of additional trams for both Luas Lines. The Docklands railway system will open shortly and this will be accompanied by an increased level of train services on the Maynooth line from Clonsilla.