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

On the Deputy's latter point, I expect that once we decide on the projects to be progressed in the short to medium term, we will be able to apply for and, I hope, receive European funding for such projects as happened in the case of similar projects in the past. Public transport projects are under way, including the Luas cross-city project which has been in receipt of support from European bodies.

As it was designed, this project would have a major impact on the ability of the rail network to perform within Dublin, Leinster and along the east coast. The Deputy has made reference to the potential cost, which would be many billions of euro. The decision I have to make involves weighing up that cost versus the cost of meeting other transport needs. I need to consider whether we could do other things in the existing rail network that would increase capacity and whether we should examine alternatives such as light rail, not to mention road project options such as those mentioned by Deputy Timmy Dooley in other parts of the country.

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