Satellite tracking 'could eliminate M-way toll queues'
Tracking motorists using satellite technology would eliminate the “primitive” practice of drivers queuing to pay motorway tolls, it was claimed today.
A leading road safety expert said the idea, which is being examined by the transport minister, would help further reduce journey times between Dublin and Belfast.
Conor Faughnan of the AA said: “In principle it makes perfect sense.
“If you accept the notion of tolling, it makes more practical sense in the 21st century to replace toll booths with satellite tracking.
“The actual process of collecting a coin or two is rather primitive, especially when you are looking at 100,000 vehicles a day. Satellite tracking is self evidently a good concept.”
It emerged today that Transport Minister Seamus Brennan is examining the possible use of the system for tolling drivers on the national motorway system.
Motorists would be sent individual bills for road use rather than throwing coins into tolls at the start and end of a motorway.
It is one of a number of options being considered as part of a review of the M1 project linking Dublin and Belfast.
Mr Faughnan said he was not aware of any imminent plans to introduce the system.
“I don’t think it will be a reality in the short term,” he added.
Irish drivers had their first experience of tolling this summer with the opening of new sections of the M1 motorway. The addition of these sections has greatly cut journey times between the two cities.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said it would greatly encourage North-South cooperation and economic development along the east coast.
