Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy. She will be aware that such a route is planned to be introduced as part of BusConnects, which is the largest-ever investment programme in the bus system in the history of the State, funded by the Government on behalf of our citizens and managed by the NTA. Since its commencement in 2021, BusConnects Dublin has seen over 100 new double-decker electric buses enter into service across Dublin, with significant investment made in depot electrification to support the buses, as well as the implementation of multiple phases of new bus services under the network redesign. Earlier this summer, I was delighted to attend the contract signing of the first of the 12 core BusConnects corridors with construction of one to start this year and another to enter construction next year. The first is Liffey Valley to Dublin city centre, which will be a game-changer.

As the Deputy is aware, I know Blanchardstown very well. I am pleased to say that the new N8 route will connect Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, with Clongriffin via Dublin Airport. The specific timing for the introduction of the route will depend on operational readiness but it could potentially be introduced within the next year. To be clear, next year, that is, by the end of 2026, is what we are working towards, depending on operational readiness.

I am not sure where the information Ongar Tidy Towns has is from; it is obviously well meaning. This route is required. The Deputy is correct to say that thousands of her constituents work in the airport. That is why I back the airport. I want to make sure the airport can continue to grow, we can support the jobs in it and ensure there is a good public transport connection between Dublin 15 and the Dublin West area and the airport.

Residents in Dublin 15 will continue to benefit from the multiple commuter train stations in the area. They will also benefit from the significant investment planned for commuter rail services under DART+ West, which will commence construction under this Government. That is more good news for the area. I will come back in.

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