Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
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653. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the Luas tracks across Dublin can be bicycle proofed; the estimated cost for this measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37163/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport, including the building and maintenance of cycling infrastructure.

However I can advise the Deputy that I am aware of this issue and I have been informed that installing a rubber insert, or similar, into rail grooves has been trialled abroad. Those trials have not been successful, with the material becoming ripped and dislodged by the tram wheels during operation. Although the search for a solution to this issue is on-going, to date a satisfactory long-term solution has not been identified by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) that would provide a hazard-free surface along tram lines, while accommodating significant tram, bus, taxi and cyclist movements.

Noting their responsibility in this matter, I have referred your question to TII for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.