Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 81: To ask the Minister for Transport when the decision on the route which will link up the two existing LUAS lines will be taken; if he has met with Dublin Bus to discuss his concerns with regard to one of the possible routes through the city centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16257/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Transport 21 provides inter alia for a city centre Luas link between St. Stephen's Green and the Luas Red line. The RPA is at present progressing this project.

In November 2005, the RPA launched a public consultation on five potential routes for linking both Luas lines in the city centre. Over 200 submissions were received by RPA on the various route options and discussions are on-going to deal with issues that have arisen. The RPA is engaged in dialogue with Dublin Bus, the City Council and the DTO in relation to the implications for other road users, including buses. Officials of my Department have met both the RPA and Dublin Bus to discuss this project.

The RPA will consider the proposed routes of the project taking account of views submitted by those who participate in the public consultation. Following this, the RPA will submit a business case to my department for approval after which they will apply for a Railway Order. This in turn will lead to a public inquiry, where all views can be put forward for consideration by the Inspector to the Inquiry. The Inspector will then make his/her recommendations to me and I will make a determination in due course.