Ms Anne Graham:

We do not disagree with the Deputy about the importance of DART underground and the DART expansion programme in particular. As we have indicated, it is a key project in our draft transport strategy. It will deliver benefit to the region if it is constructed. However, many other elements need to be developed to reduce the level of congestion throughout the region.

We agree that it is still a very important. It is a key project and programme that needs to be delivered over the 20 year horizon of the strategy to reduce congestion and provide for the travel demand that is increasing throughout the region. We are an independent agency that evaluates these business cases on behalf of the Department. We are required to evaluate them. We retain our independence in that regard.