Disappointment in Waterford over BusConnects exclusion
Cllr Seamus Ryan expressed disappointment at the reported exclusion of BusConnects from the first tranche of infrastructure desginated for accelerated delivery under the Government's new Critical Infrastructure legislation.
Former Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr Seamus Ryan has expressed disappointment at the reported exclusion of BusConnects from the first tranche of infrastructure desginated for accelerated delivery under the Government's new Critical Infrastructure legislation.
Commenting on the matter Cllr Ryan said the exclusion was "a deeply disappointing decision for Waterford and for every city" seeking to improve public transport.
"BusConnects is exactly the type of project that should benefit from fast-tracking," he said.
"Instead, it appears to have been left behind," he added.
Commenting that Waterford is Ireland's fastest-growing city, Cllr Ryan said the local public transport infrastructure has not kept pace with how the the city is growing.
"We need investment that delivers more frequent services, better reliability and modern infrastructure if we are serious about reducing congestion and supporting sustainable growth, said Cllr Ryan.
He also said the exclusion of BusConnects sends the wrong message about the Government’s commitment to regional cities.
“Government cannot continue to speak about balanced regional development while delaying the transport investment that cities like Waterford urgently need," he said.
"If we want people to choose public transport, we have to provide a service that is reliable, accessible and fit for purpose," he added.
He said BusConnects would play a vital role in supporting housing delivery, employment growth and climate targets across Waterford.
“Every new housing development, every new employer and every major investment in our city depends on having a transport system that works," he said.
"BusConnects is not just about buses; it is about giving people real transport choices and building a city that can continue to grow sustainably," he added.
Cllr Ryan said he was calling on the Government to revisit the projects included under the Critical Infrastructure framework and ensure BusConnects is added without delay.
“If this legislation is genuinely intended to remove unnecessary delays from nationally significant infrastructure, then BusConnects should be among the first projects included," he said.
"Waterford has waited long enough for the public transport investment it deserves," he added.
