Sir, - Most of your correspondents on this topic have missed the key issue, which is the "connectedness" of the overall system. The Luas presents an opportunity for developing three more radial lines of Dart like quality, at an acceptable cost. One of these lines activates an abandoned road bed for most of its length; this alone is an immense asset.
The first "connectedness" issue is that on the published map the junction point is O'Connell Street, and there is no connection with the Dart. it would take very little adjustment of the plans to interface with the Dart, either at Connolly or at Tara Street.
The second "connectedness" issue is with the existing bus system, or a development of it. The combination of Dart and Luas offers an opportunity to rethink the overall system into the form of an interconnected mesh, taking the load off the congested O'Connell Bridge area, and using effectively all the city bridges.
It should be possible to get from anywhere to anywhere else in the whole city, using an easily readable, integrated map (like the Paris Metro), with very rarely more than one easily identifiable, and easily executed, change.
Nothing short of a totally integrated system, with easy interchanges, transparent mapping and high predictable frequencies, will get people out of their cars to use the system for keeping time critical appointments.
There are other cities in Europe where it is possible to keep appointments using the public system. Dublin deserves this level of quality. - Yours, etc.,
Techne Associates,
POBox 1881,
Rathmines,
Dublin 6.