Leixlip-based independent TD Deputy Catherine Murphy has described Transport Minister Martin Cullen comments following the opening of the new section of the M4 as 'dishonest'.
"He described the new toll as good value for money for the journey from Dublin to Galway when he knows full well the selection process for toll roads is deliberately aimed at daily commuters that travel a fraction of that journey," she said yesterday.
"There are only two sections of roads to the West where tolls are planned, the section of the M4 which was officially opened today and the new section of the N6 just outside of Galway which is not due to open for two years."
Deputy Murphy says the toll locations selected are intended to yield the highest level of commuter traffic, a point that is further emphasised when the issue of increasing house prices driving workers further away from our cities.
"Those who commute daily will contribute towards the cost of constructing other sections of the road in two ways, through general taxation and also by the imposition of tolls. This is an inequitable way to pay for national infrastructure according to the Deputy. For those living along the sections in between the two tolled sections no toll will apply."
Deputy Murphy says experience shows widespread evidence of traffic diverting away from the tolled roads, evidence of which can be seen daily on back roads around the M50 or near the M1 at Drogheda. The 'double whammy' of paying a toll and keeping the traffic are a major disappointment to neighbouring communities, she concludes.
To use the M50 as a daily commuter costs in excess of €800 per annum, the new section of the M4 for daily use will cost in excess of €1,200. Deputy Murphy notes that both apply to after-taxed income and unfairly penalise those living in what are the new suburbs.
"There is no doubt there is a need to pay for new infrastructure, however that must be done in an equitable way, selective tolling in congested areas is plainly unfair."
