Cuffe calls for front-loading of orbital routes2nd July2018The Green Party has welcomed today's launch of the draft BusConnects network plans for greater Dublin, but has called for the early implementation of improvements in orbital routes connecting Dublin's suburbs. Councillor Ciarán Cuffe said:"Currently it is hugely difficult to travel to places around Dublin without travelling through Dublin City Centre. It is of crucial importance that routes around the city are improved so as to provide more access to opportunities for all Dubliners. Currently the number 17 and 17A orbital bus routes have a poor level of service. This needs to improve. Greater connectivity between Blanchardstown, Clondalkin, Tallaght and Dundrum is needed, as well as for the inner suburbs. Orbital Transport in Dublin still revolves around private car use on the M50, which is detrimental to both quality of life and the environment. We need to see an improvement in orbital routes as proof positive that Bus Connects will work for Dubliners."A key element of the redesigned bus network is that more interchanges between buses will be required. The National Transport Authority, Dublin Bus and the Minister for Transport Shane Ross TD will have to guarantee short and reliable waiting times between connections."It is crucial that road widening is not seen as the easy answer to implementing BusConnects. Prioritising buses rather than cars must be a first priority, rather than using Compulsory Purchase Powers to buy land."We've had far too many false dawns for public transport in Dublin. This time it must be for real. Minister Ross must see buses as the people mover for all Dubliners."ENDSIssued and uploaded 2nd July 2018