Predictable backlash against cutting car use shows politicians haven't read the detail

To achieve a reduction in emissions in the transport sector, as required by the Climate Action Plan, unpopular policy decisions are essential to get people living in cities out of cars, writes Dr Catherine Conlon.

Traffic at Parnell Place in Cork city last November. The National Transport Modelling Tool would include car-free areas in the major cities, a €10 congestion charge in the five major cities and a 400% increase in parking charges in these cities. Picture: Larry Cummins

Plans to introduce congestion charges and higher car parking fees that form part of a modelling exercise on what it will take to reduce car usage and meet climate targets have been met with a predictable backlash of criticism from Government TDs.

Statements from TDs and senators suggest that many have not read the detail of the report that specifically acknowledges and makes provision for the higher dependency of people living in rural areas on car ownership. There is no attempt to provide realistic alternatives to reach mandatory climate targets within the short time frame of the next seven years.