Government urged to rethink toll price increase plan

The government has been urged to rethink their approach towards motorists after yet another toll price increase was announced this week.

Deputy Darren O'Rourke said that combined with the carbon tax hike on petrol and diesel implemented this month, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael continue to hit commuters hardest while failing to provide suitable alternatives.

A number of toll charges across Ireland’s road network are set to rise from 1st January, including a 10c hike on the M4 Kilcock to Kinnegad route.

Southbound prices in the Dublin Port Tunnel will rise to €13 during morning peak hours and there will be a 10c increase for unregistered cars without a tag or video account travelling along the M50. However, cars on eight other national toll roads across the country, including the M3 and the M1 will not face an increase.

Deputy O’Rourke said the increases comes as another kick in the teeth to motorists and commuters in Co Meath, as the cost of living crisis continues to rumble on.

“Workers and families are struggling to get by. They can scarcely afford the carbon tax hikes that were imposed by the government earlier this month. Now, hit with yet another additional charge, many ordinary workers and families have been left wondering, ‘Can I actually afford the commute to work? What will I have to sacrifice to get my child to school?'

“Tolls disproportionately hurt those living in rural areas, who are forced to use a private car as the public transport options simply aren’t there. Commuters in Meath are particularly affected, with two tolls on the M3.

“This Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael government are continuing a campaign aimed at stretching costs for ordinary, hard-working people across the country.

“The reality is that these toll roads are a necessity across the state. People use them everyday to travel to work, to bring children to school, and to attend medical appointments in different parts of the country. Without viable alternatives, they should not be punished for doing so.

“Sinn Féin is committed to providing pathways, not cliff edges, ensuring that ordinary workers and families are not punished for getting where they need to be in the only way that is available to them.” he said.