KENNY RECOMMENDS STEPS TO TACKLE TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN KILMORE AREA OF COOLOCK

Posted on July 17, 2013 3:38 PM   |   Permanent Link   

Sean Kenny, the Dublin Bay North Labour TD and member of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport has recommended that further road markings will not have an impact on traffic congestion caused by parked cars at local schools.

"The Traffic Advisory Group of Dublin City Council met in May and reported that 'School Keep Clear' markings have been provided at the entrance to the school on Cromcastle Green to improve safety due to parking at the school entrance. However, regarding the provision of parking restrictions outside schools, the Roads and Traffic Department was of the opinion that the provision of additional parking restrictions will not alleviate the problem of illegal parking by parents. In general, there is a disregard for double yellow lines by parents."

"In the event that parking restrictions are ignored by parents, it is not feasible to provide enforcement at every school in Dublin. The Gardaí or Dublin Street Parking Services, the City Council's parking enforcement contractor, just do not have the resources to patrol all schools. I would agree with the Roads and Traffic Department that a "softer" approach to alleviate the problem at this and other schools by creating a greater awareness among parents of the benefits of walking to school and I think this would help reduce the traffic congestion. I would encourage parents to leave their car at home and to walk or cycle to and from school with their child."

"Walking and cycling allows parents and children to see and learn more about their local environment and gives children a chance to enjoy fresh air and exercise on the way to school. An example is the "Walking Bus". It comprises of volunteer parents, one to "drive" and one to "conduct" a group of school children. It follows a set route to school, collecting pupils at "bus stops" / collection points on the way. However, the scheme requires commitment from parents and school management."

"Public transport is also encouraged if distances are too far for walking. Even using public transport or walking one or two days a week would improve congestion at schools. Parents who insist on driving to school can be encouraged to park away from the school gate and walk at least part of the journey."