NRA defends M50 barrier-free tolling plans
The National Roads Authority is defending itself against strong opposition to a new system of tolling on the M50.
Barrier-free tolling is due to be introduced in August, in a bid to reduce traffic congestion on the motorway.
An oral hearing on the plans is now underway, with consumer groups claiming the new system will lead to excessive charges for motorists.
But Sean O'Neill of the NRA says it's the only answer: "This is absolutely, without question what people want. This is what people expect. What exists on the M50 today is not acceptable.
"People are paying €1.90 to a private company and they’re not getting the service that is required. As part of that the NRA had to step in to buy out NTR and therefore we could remove the Westlink and put in a modern barrier-free system."
