Letters to the Editor: Scrap Cork BusConnects and build light rail on disused train lines

A reader responds to 'Irish Examiner' articles about public transport to propose building more light rail on existing and former rail networks

Letter-writer Dan JJ Kahn suggests a new link to Ringaskiddy port should be built, 'possibly via the existing Cork-Cobh line and via a tunnel or lifting bridge across Cork Harbour to Monkstown and thence to Ringaskiddy with a branch to Carrigaline'. Picture: Larry Cummins

After reading the articles in the Irish Examiner on April 1 about transport matters in Cork, I feel that, as a regular visitor to relatives in East Cork, I have to raise why investment in the existing mainline rail  routes — as well as making a start on a light rail network as quickly as possible for Cork and outlying towns poorly served by public transport — is the only medium- and long-term cost-effective solution to congestion, energy waste, and fatal road accidents.

The much-heralded BusConnects programme appears to be a welcome development but, despite the supposedly quick implementation of a bus improvement scheme in comparison to the still not started light rail network, BusConnects has little to show for itself apart from the newly announced land-grab at Tivoli Docks to build a €10m ‘temporary’ depot.