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Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) has warned that overcrowding on trains may worsen as additional train carriages will not arrive until late 2021 at the earliest - Leaving Cert Economics - Question c - 2020
Question c
Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) has warned that overcrowding on trains may worsen as additional train carriages will not arrive until late 2021 at the earliest. (Sour... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) has warned that overcrowding on trains may worsen as additional train carriages will not arrive until late 2021 at the earliest - Leaving Cert Economics - Question c - 2020
Step 1
State and explain one reason why the demand for train services in Ireland has increased recently.
Answer
One significant reason for the increased demand for train services in Ireland is the recovery in the Irish economy, which has led to an increase in employment. As the economy rebounds from the impacts of the great recession, more individuals are able to find jobs, and this has spurred an increase in the number of commuters. With more people travelling to work, there is a greater reliance on public transport, including trains, as it provides a convenient and efficient means to access workplaces. Furthermore, the rise of remote work has also influenced travel patterns, driving individuals to seek reliable transport options.
Step 2
Discuss the case for and against increased investment by the Government in Ireland’s railways.
Answer
For increased investment:
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Facilitates geographic mobility: Investment in railways can enhance connectivity across different regions, making it easier for individuals to travel and engage in the labor market. This mobility can stimulate economic growth as it enables a more efficient allocation of resources.
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Environmental benefits: Rail transport is relatively environmentally friendly compared to car travel. Investing in rail can encourage the use of public transport, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with road traffic, and helping to combat climate change.
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Improved infrastructure: Continuous investment ensures that the quality of rail service is maintained, which can lead to increased ridership. Improved infrastructure can result in reduced travel times and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Against increased investment:
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Very capital intensive: Rail projects typically require substantial initial capital, which can strain government finances and potentially increase national debt.
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Long-term investment: Rail infrastructure projects often take many years to become operational, and therefore may not address immediate transport issues efficiently.
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Opportunity costs: Allocating funds to railways might mean fewer resources for other urgent public investments like healthcare or education.
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Cost to the taxpayer: Increased funding for rail may eventually lead to higher taxes or public debt, potentially placing a burden on taxpayers who may not benefit directly from the investment.