The paper includes options such as congestion charging or low emission zones, where higher-emission vehicles are not permitted. It is understood the document says legislation would be required to introduce either congestion charging or low emissions zones. Transport minister Darragh O’Brien has previously ruled out the introduction of congestion charges, saying he wants to improve traffic flows through improvements to public transport. It recommended that a review of existing legislation be undertaken to establish whether amendments or new legislation would be required for creating congestion charging or low emissions zones. The plan says that “it will be important that out-of-town retail parks and industrial zones will not enjoy any beneficial fall out from congestion charging in urban centres”.

Source: Irish Examiner March 02, 2026 06:13 UTC