The Sandyford to St Stephen's Green line of Dublin's new Luas tram system has been officially opened. The public demand has seen queues streching around St Stephen's Green as hundrends of people take advantage of the free fares to try out the Luas.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Tranpsort Mr Seamus Brennan, said "this is an historic day and one of celebration for Dublin".
"In every sense the Luas is a transport system for the 21st century, combining a visually striking, state of the art fleet of trams with a frequent, reliable and convenient commuter service.
"It will further enhance Dublin's reputation as a vibrant, progressive and modern European city," Mr Brennan said.
And he added that the people of "this city, county and country will decide how successful it is".
From 3 p.m., passengers at any of the 13 stations will be able to catch the 14 trams running on the "Green Line" line every ten minutes.
It the first time there has been a tram service in the capital for 55 years.
The trams will be free to all for the first five days. Thereafter, payment will depend on how far you travel. Tickets will cost between €1.30 and €2 for one-way trips, and €16 for a seven-day unlimited ticket (reduced to €14 at selected retailers).
OAPs will be entitled to free travel at all times. Tickets can be bought from vending machines near the stops and from a number of specially selected shops near the stations.
From next week, normal service will commence, with trams running from 5.30 a.m. to 12.30 a.m. Monday to Friday, from 6.30 a.m. to 12.30 a.m. Saturday and from 7.30 a.m. to 12.30 a.m. Sunday.
It is expected the Luas system will carry up to 6,000 people per hour at peak times once the "Red Line" from Tallaght to Connolly Station on Amiens Street - passing through the Red Cow roundabout - is open at the end of August. The two lines do not meet.
The Rail Procurement Agency has warned other road users to be alert to the presence of trams from today. Black and yellow warning signs have been installed for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. All have been told to avoid blocking the path of trams going into tram lanes. Cyclists have been warned to watch out for rail grooves.
Pedestrians should not walk along tramways or step on to tramways without looking both ways. An emergency hotline has been set up in the case of accidents and can be contacted at (01) 4673040.