Minister defends M50 barrier-free tolling

The Minster for Transport, Noel Dempsey has defended the introduction of barrier-free tolling on the M50.

The new system is due to be introduced next August, in a bid to reduce traffic congestion on the motorway.

An oral hearing on the plans got underway today, with consumer groups claiming it will lead to excessive charges for motorists.

Mr Dempsey has said that people who use the M50 should pay for it.

"What we are trying to do is make it as painless as possible by allowing people to pay in advance, so they wont have to stop at the toll bridge," said Mr Dempsey.