Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senator for raising this matter and for his comments. He will be aware that I appreciate his special interest in transport, which is even evident on the head bills of his letters to me. I am being genuine, not patronising, in informing him that I take particular account of proposals he makes because of his special interest in transport which I have observed over the past two years. I will, therefore, take special note of his contribution this evening.

I thank the Senator for his comments concerning the Luas. I believe its success will increase as the days and years pass. I also thank him for raising the future development of rail services to Clonee and Spencer Dock. As he stated, Irish Rail is examining the possibility of developing a spur from the Maynooth line to Dunboyne which passes close to Clonee. This project is consistent with the Dublin Transportation Office strategy up to 2016, Platform for Change.

In this regard, the company is undertaking a feasibility study and outline scheme design. This study will address future traffic demand, operational feasibility, capital costs, cost benefit analysis, project delivery options and funding options. It will be set against the background of planning guidelines for the region, planned developments in the area and future road developments. The work is expected to be completed within a six month timeframe. Irish Rail will involve representatives from Meath County Council, Fingal County Council and the Dublin Transportation Office in the exercise.

In order to cater adequately for the anticipated traffic growth along the Maynooth line, Irish Rail is also proposing the construction of a new station at Spencer Dock to help alleviate the congestion difficulties being experienced at Connolly Station. My Department is in discussion with Irish Rail on the matter and a formal proposal is awaited.

The Taoiseach's comments concerning the metro referred to the 20 or 30 year overall plan, which would cost billions of euro. While he and I agree it is not possible to proceed with the whole plan, we are likely to proceed with the airport to the city centre section as a first step. The Government will finalise its considerations on this matter within a few weeks.