Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
97. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the traffic congestion caused by the decision of the OPW to still impose traffic restrictions in the Phoenix Park; the plans of the OPW to lift traffic restrictions in the Phoenix Park that were introduced due to the Covid-19 crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12303/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works introduced restrictions in the Phoenix Park in line with Government policy during the lockdown phases of the Covid-19 emergency. On advice from An Garda Si´ocha´na, the gates on the periphery of the Park were closed and access maintained via the Castleknock and Park Gate St. gates through Chesterfield Avenue for emergency services, essential workers and for workers within the environs of the Park.
In the early phases of reopening, OPW has continued to consult with and work closely with An Garda Síochána in relation to vehicular access and traffic management in the Park. To this end, gates on the periphery have remained closed and social distancing measures have been introduced to ensure the large volumes of cyclists and pedestrians accessing the Park can maintain social distance as they enjoy the Park. These measures are being kept under review.
There has been an unprecedented demand for the Phoenix Park since travel restrictions were raised from 5kms, to 20kms and most recently to travel within one's own County. This has significantly impacted the Phoenix Park similar to many other tourist locations throughout Dublin and elsewhere. In recent weeks, OPW has worked closely with the Dublin City Council's Traffic Control Centre with regard to the sequencing of the traffic lights at Parkgate Street and Castleknock Gate so as to address the traffic congestion issues in the Park and to minimise the impact of traffic build up specifically at the gates.
The OPW welcomes everyone who wishes to visit the Phoenix Park and recommends that those who are simply passing through the Park use an alternative route as this will minimise the impact on the recreational users of the Phoenix Park.
