Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The public transport investment programme has been cut by 29% in the Minister's budget this year compared to last year. That is a reduction of €262 million. The Green Party put much emphasis on public transport and the Minister has done his best, however they have lost the budget battle at Cabinet. The Minister is attacking very important and constructive projects which are needed in the public transport investment programme. In his reply the Minister said the decisions are with the Minister for Finance. Can he outline what decisions have been already made on reductions in these transport investment programmes with particular reference to Metro west and the western rail corridor, and any other issues he may have on his file?

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