Ireland year 1987 – Irish Trams – Mint never hinged **

Ireland year 1987 – Irish Trams – Mint never hinged **

Ireland has a rich history of tramways, particularly in its capital city, Dublin. Here are some key points about Irish trams:

1. Dublin Trams (Luas): The Dublin tram system, known as Luas (meaning “speed” or “swiftness” in Irish), consists of two lines: the Green Line and the Red Line. The Green Line runs from Brides Glen to Broombridge, while the Red Line runs from Tallaght to The Point. Luas trams are modern light rail vehicles that provide efficient and environmentally friendly transportation in Dublin.
2. Historic Trams: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dublin had an extensive tram network operated by the Dublin United Tramways Company (DUTC). These trams, known as “DUTC trams,” were horse-drawn initially but later electrified. The tram network covered much of the city and suburbs, providing a vital mode of public transportation.
3. Old Dublin Tram Routes: Historic tram routes in Dublin included lines to areas such as Sandymount, Rathgar, Dalkey, Clonskea, and Ringsend, among others. The trams were a common sight on the streets of Dublin until their decline in the mid-20th century due to competition from buses and automobiles.
4. Tram Restoration: Efforts have been made to preserve and restore historic Dublin trams. The National Transport Museum of Ireland in County Offaly houses a collection of vintage trams, including examples from the Dublin tram network. These restored trams provide a glimpse into Dublin’s transportation history.
5. Other Irish Tram Systems: In addition to Dublin, other cities and towns in Ireland had tram systems in the past, including Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford, and Belfast. Many of these tram networks were phased out in the mid-20th century, but there have been discussions in recent years about the possibility of reintroducing trams in some cities to address traffic congestion and promote sustainable transportation.