The number of complaints of anti-social behaviour on the Luas has increased by a third.

There were 787 reports last year, according to Freedom of Information figures released to Newstalk – up from 593 in 2019.

Meanwhile, complaints of vandalism increased by almost 7% last year to 778.

The increases came despite the number of passenger journeys falling by more than half to 19 million last year.

These passengers at the St Stephen's Green Luas stop told Newstalk they don’t come across bad behaviour regularly.

“I have seen people giving the ticket collector a lot of abuse,” said one man.

“I suppose I have been lucky enough,” said another. “I do have friends who have said they have noticed it a bit more in recent weeks. Maybe since the masks have gone away they have noticed it a bit more with more people willing to get on and that sort of thing.”

Luas operator Transdev spent nearly over €130,000 on vandalism costs last year – cleaning graffiti and fixing broken windows, doors and passenger seats.

Several local councillors and TDs have called for the establishment of a dedicated transport police to respond to anti-social behaviour.