Meath transport issues raised with NTA

The Navan Rail line, a feasibility study for a Bettystown train station, parking solutions at Laytown train station, improved bus connections to M3 Parkway and delays and no-shows on routes 103 to 109 were among the issues raised at a recent meeting of Sinn Fein public representatives from Meath with officials from the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The meeting, held at Leinster House, covered a comprehensive list of deficits and required interventions across all modes of public and active travel.

Speaking afterwards, Deputy Darren O'Rourke said; "We presented a clear picture of a county whose transport infrastructure is failing to keep pace with demand. From the lack of basic bus services in some areas to the long-awaited rail projects, commuters in Meath are being left behind.

Amongst the key issues raised by the delegation were the Navan rail line and they pushed for progress on the project. They called for a feasibility study for a Bettystown train station and for parking solutions at Laytown, improved bus connections to M3 Parkway, and clarity on the timelines for Dart+ North and Dart+ West projects impacting Meath.

The representatives highlighted systemic failures across routes 103 to 109, the Navan Town service, and the complete absence of any service in areas like Bellewstown. Representatives stressed that services are "utterly inadequate for current demand and population growth and cited chronic issues with capacity and frequent cancellations on specific routes requiring urgent attention.

While welcoming investment in Active Travel, the delegation expressed significant frustration with the pace of delivery, the disruption caused by works, and problematic designs in some locations, such as the creation of overly narrow roads and damage to verges.

They identified numerous locations across the county in desperate need of proper bus stops and shelters to provide basic dignity and protection for waiting passengers.

"For our constituents, accessing reliable transport is a battle-a-day," said Deputy O'Rourke.

"While we are under no illusion that one meeting will instantly resolve these deep-seated problems, we will continue to be a persistent voice for change. I want to thank the NTA for meeting with us. They heard, loud and clear, the daily challenges faced by Meath commuters.

"We left the meeting with a commitment to keep pushing. Sinn Féin in Meath will continue to hold the NTA and the Government to account, demanding the reliable, integrated, and expanding public transport network that the people of this county deserve and have paid for," he said.