Almost 29 million commuters travelled on the Luas in 2007 marking a record year for the light rail system, transport chiefs revealed today.
This was an increase of nearly three million on last year's figure and seven million on 2005.
Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey said reducing congestion was vital for economic growth and quality of life. "These passenger figures for Luas are very encouraging.
"It's further proof that if you make reliable, top quality public transport available to the public then it will be used.
"In 2008 I want to see more quality public transport coming on stream so that people can start making the switch from cars to public transport with ease. Freeing up our city centres from severe congestion is vital for economic growth and for improved quality of life.
"Reliable public transport will play a central role in addressing this issue," he said. The minister said that seven extra Luas services, two new Metro lines and increased heavy rail and bus capacity were planned under Transport 21.
To facilitate last year's Luas passenger growth, the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) introduced 13 longer trams on both the Red and Green lines extending them from 30 metres to 40 metres. All remaining 30 metre trams are due to be extended to 40 metres in 2008.
RPA chief executive Frank Allen said: "I am delighted with the growing passenger figures for both Luas lines and in particular with the record 2007 figures. "I want to take this opportunity to thank the public for continuing to choose the Luas. "We are working hard to deliver the planned new Luas and Metro services under Transport 21, and we hope to see more tram extensions coming on line and the commencement of services to Citywest and the Docklands over the next 36 months."