Hackett says 'every journey counts'

The Department of Transport recently launched the Your Journey Counts campaign to highlight the significant investment in green, cleaner travel options such as public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure and to encourage a change of behaviour in how we travel.

Cllr Mark Hackett thinks this is as relevant to rural Ireland as anywhere else,.

“We are going to be using cars in rural Ireland for some time to come but there are lots of ways most of us can reduce their use. I make a real point of combining jobs to limit the number of car trips I make into town. It takes a bit of planning, and a list, but I will get it all done in a morning and not have to go back again for the week. This definitely saves journeys, time and money and once I’m in town I generally walk the very short distances between stops.”

“I think there is a culture shift happening, slowly! I think Offaly people are realising that travelling to Dublin by train is often the less stressful and less expensive option than car. Again it works best when planned in advance. That’s my recent experience! You can catch up with a few jobs on the train, save on the cost and stress of parking and arrive at your destination unflustered.”

“Rural public transport is immensely important and it’s definitely moving in the right direction under this Government with thanks to the Green Party input. Look up to see the scheduled and door-to-door services offered by TFI Local Link in your area – they may be more extensive than you thought.”

Cllr Hackett concluded: “I’d love to hear what people think of the new campaign and if they have any suggestions which would help them reduce their car use in the Edenderry area.”