Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his wishes and I, too, look forward to working with him. The National Transport Authority, NTA, has responsibility for the implementation and development of infrastructure projects in the greater Dublin area, such as the Luas light rail projects. The NTA is undertaking a technical consultancy study, entitled the Fingal-north Dublin transport study, to assess the long-term rail transport requirements of the north Dublin-Fingal corridor, extending from Finglas to Malahide and including Dublin Airport and Swords. This review is examining existing proposals, including the metro north, as well as other options for a rail-based transport solution to meet the area's needs in the long term. I expect to receive a report from the NTA on the outcome of the review by early 2015. I also expect at that time to receive the updated DART underground business case and the preliminary business case for the Swords/airport bus rapid transit, BRT, from the NTA. I will then consider the options for addressing key public transport deficits in the greater Dublin area, having regard to the outcome of the studies as regards costs, benefits, affordability and funding options, with a view to finalising a position by mid-2015.

Significant Exchequer resources will be required to advance any major project irrespective of the availability of private or EU funds. New projects cannot be funded within the existing level of resources available to my Department. The key priority over the coming years is to protect investment made to date and to maintain safety standards. If additional funds are available, which is not certain, there will be many projects competing for these scarce resources. I will prioritise any additional funds for projects for which there is a clear need and which are affordable, have a sound business case and add value to existing infrastructure.

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