motor car

motor car history in Ireland mirrors that of most developed countries in the social, economic, and environmental changes it effected. Motor transport effectively replaced other forms of transport, notably the railways, not least in the haulage sector. The car was the preserve of the well‐off until the 1930s. Although traffic greatly increased, it remained behind that of most developed countries. This reflected Ireland's comparative economic backwardness in the first half of the 20th century. The smallish population and comparatively short distances kept Ireland's roads still relatively uncrowded. There were 5,058 registered motor cars, buses, and lorries in 1911. By 1983 there were approximately 900,000 registered vehicles in the Republic. In the north, the figure had reached 558,000 by 1991.

Pollution from petrol fumes and the despoliation of the environment by multi‐lane highways and roadside hoardings is also markedly less than elsewhere. This draws favourable comments from foreign visitors. Motor transport has made great inroads into the parochialism and sense of isolation of rural Ireland. Car ferries allow ordinary families to take touring holidays abroad. Other consequences have been the growth of new suburbs and dormitory towns around Dublin, Belfast, and other cities, and more recently the proliferation of out‐of‐town shopping centres.

Peter Collins