Labour’s Councillor Helen Ogbu has called on people to attend a public meeting taking place at 7.30pm this evening (Monday ) titled End the Gridlock, which aims to tackle the worsening traffic chaos across Galway.
Cllr Ogbu said Galway cannot afford further delay and called on residents to attend and demand a transport system that works for people, businesses and communities.
“Anyone who lives or works in Galway knows that traffic gridlock is now a daily reality, we know it is one of the most congested cities in Europe," she added. "It is costing families time together, it is putting pressure on workers and businesses, and it is damaging our environment. Labour has a clear vision for Galway to be the best place in Ireland to live, work and raise a family, but that vision cannot become a reality while our city is at a standstill.
“We support progressing the Ring Road, which is currently awaiting a decision from An Coimisiún Pleanála, but let us be honest," Cllr Ogbu continued. "The Ring Road is not a silver bullet. Even if it proceeds, it will not solve the deep structural problems in our transport system. We need to do much more and we need to do it now.
“First, we must prioritise bus transport. The Bus Connects project for Galway must move ahead without delay. It will deliver enhanced frequency, serve new areas and make bus travel more attractive and reliable. People will use public transport when it is frequent, affordable and dependable. We must also increase the frequency of Local Link services so that rural communities are not left behind and are properly connected to the city.
“Second, we need to start planning seriously for light rail in Galway. The National Transport Authority published a feasibility study in 2024 outlining an east west light rail route from Knocknacarra to Roscam via the city centre. Cities across Europe of a similar size to Galway already move tens of thousands of passengers each day on light rail. It is time for Galway to show the same ambition. We need to begin the planning process now so that we can connect communities, reduce reliance on private cars and cut carbon emissions.
“Transport policy must also recognise the role of remote work. Giving workers a genuine right to request and access remote work will reduce unnecessary car journeys and improve work life balance. Fewer cars on the road means less congestion and cleaner air for everyone.
“Galway’s gridlock crisis did not happen overnight, but it will not be solved by delay or drift. We need bold decisions and sustained investment. On 2 March at 7.30pm in the Connacht Hotel, we are inviting residents, commuters and business owners to join us at End the Gridlock. If we want a city that works for people, that supports jobs and that protects our environment, then we must demand better public transport and a clear plan for light rail. Galway deserves a transport system that matches its ambition, and together we can make that happen.”
End The Gridlock will take place this evening, March 2, at 7.30pm in the Connaught Hotel. Guest speakers at the event will include Labour’s spokesperson on social protection, Deputy Mark Wall, and Brendan Holland from the Gluas campaign for a Galway Luas.
