Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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455. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he was consulted by the NTA before a decision was taken not to insert rubber inserts on tram lines on new Luas city cross over to accommodate cyclists and to make it safer. [53213/17]

Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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457. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to make funding available to provide rubber inserts at designated stretches of Luas tram lines to improve safety of cyclists. [53215/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 457 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that cycling arrangements have been put in place along many sections of the Luas Cross City route however along certain sections there is the potential for cyclists to interact in relatively restricted space with trams, buses and taxis. This arrangement has given rise to safety concerns at these specific locations, with the possibility of bicycle wheels becoming caught in the grooves of the tram tracks.

Because of these concerns the NTA, as sanctioning authority, is requesting TII to erect signs advising cyclists not to cycle along the relevant sections. In the city centre, this includes Grafton Street (between College Green and Nassau Street), Nassau Street (between Grafton Street and Dawson Street) and the north end of Dawson Street.

I am informed that, trials abroad for installing a rubber insert, or similar, into rail grooves have not been successful, with the material becoming ripped and dislodged by the tram wheels during operation. Therefore, the NTA does not propose to use that approach. An alternative approach which would provide a satisfactory long-term solution has not yet been identified to the NTA that would provide a hazard-free surface along tram lines, while accommodating significant tram, bus, taxi and cyclist movements. Collaboration is ongoing between NTA, TII and the City Council and will guide the future approach to this matter.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred your question to the NTA for a more detailed reply with regard to the issues raised. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.