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

Our priority with the funding available is to maintain the infrastructure we have, including roads, and put our money into making them as safe and efficient as possible.

The future outlook is that, with the population growth we expect to see, particularly on the north side of the city, and the economic development taking place in that area, there will be a need for enhanced public transport in the future. That will require new funding from the Exchequer or the private sector, or both, as well as clarity on the best option for that part of the city.

To reply to the Deputy's specific question on development levies for metro north, that project has been deferred and is currently on hold. One of the benefits of this process is that it will allow us to evaluate what the metro north plans would offer in comparison with other routes. I am aware of the money that has already been spent on the project, but I have to make the right choices in regard to taxpayers' money now and in the future. Issues arising in regard to Swiftway, the rapid bus transport system, are also being investigated in the context of developments in that part of the city.

See this speech in context