Transport officials under fire over dart closure

Transport officials came under fire today after it was announced that the capital’s light rail system is to close over the busy January sales period.

Dart services in the south of Dublin will be shut down from Christmas Day to January 4 while upgrading work is carried out.

Iarnrod Eireann was criticised for not consulting the city’s business chiefs before making the decision.

Declan Martin, director of policy at Dublin Chambers of Commerce, accused the transport agencies of conspiring against the city.

He said: “I think it is an extraordinary shambles that the main transport agencies in Dublin cannot talk to each other and schedule their work.”

While he accepted that the work had to be done, Mr Martin said he could not understand why it was taking place over the peak sales period.

Ray Kelly, marketing manager with Iarnrod Eireann, said the multi-million euro project was essential to meet the needs of the capital.

He told RTE radio: “Anyone that travels on the Dart knows there is a crying need for capacity. This project will increase it by 30%. It will make all stations more accessible.

“We are absolutely convinced and determined to bring this project in on time and on budget.

“It is the largest investment in Dublin rail since the 80s.”

Last month Iarnrod Eireann began closing the southside service on weekends to allow for the maintenance work.

It is set to continue until next summer, and work will then begin on the northside Dart service.

Mr Kelly said the company’s aim was to minimise disruption for weekday passengers.

He added: “We just want to get this done on time so people will benefit.”