Efficient Transport Sector Vital Component for Social Development and Success of European Green Deal: Green MEPs O’Sullivan, Cuffe.
Transport is the sector with the greatest challenges when it comes to emissions reduction efforts around climate neutrality, say Green Irish MEPs.
Speaking on the importance of transport in tackling carbon emission, Green MEP for Dublin Ciarán Cuffe says:
“In the European Parliament this week, we’re working to improve public transport as well as invest in walking and cycling. This makes it easier for people to get around, and helps reduce our carbon footprint. The changes we discussed in the Trans European Transport (Ten-T) networks across the EU can help deliver the European Green Deal-the EU’s overarching climate policy and improve our communities in Ireland and across the continent
Green Party MEP for Ireland South Grace O’Sullivan says this is an issue that is as relevant at home, both nationally and locally, as it is internationally.
“We’re seeing a shift in the dynamic around decision-making on infrastructure investment. Commitments around active travel and public transport are contained in the Programme for Government, and have become more focussed areas at home and abroad since Covid struck.
“Local authorities have been mandated to carry out assessments of their road networks. We saw the social and health benefits that have derived over recent times with the roll-out of walking and cycling infrastructure to meet public demand. There’s growing support for a move away from our obsession with road-building and more serious investment in public transport. It makes sense on so many levels, and engagement at a local level is increasing.
“At the moment, for example, the National Transport Authority is involved in designing core bus corridors in Cork City, to support efficiencies around bus services in the city. And closer to my own home, community-based campaigns such as South East on Track in Wexford, are gaining ground in their calls for the reopening of the Waterford to Rosslare train line, with a view to re-launching off-road rail routes for freight and passengers.”
Comentarios