Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Transport the way in which he will integrate new Metro, DART, rail and LUAS lines in view of the distances between many of the stops of different modes as proposed; the person who has overall charge of integrating these new projects with existing transport services and proposed ones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21974/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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At the launch of Transport 21, in November last, and many times since, I indicated that an important feature of the overall rail plans under the programme was the development of an integrated network that would enable passengers to transfer between suburban rail, Luas and DART at a number of interchange stations. All of the relevant rail projects within Transport 21 will provide the optimal level of interchange and the map of the Greater Dublin Area Rail network, that was circulated at the launch, clearly shows the integrated rail network that will be in place by the end of 2015 and gives an indication of where the interchange points are likely to be located.

The definitive location of interchange points involving any new line will be finally determined only when public consultations and statutory planning processes are complete.

A high level of cooperation between the Railway Procurement Agency and Iarnród Éireann is essential in ensuring that adequate interchange facilities are available for passengers.

I have made it clear to the two agencies that they are to develop their projects as part of an integrated network and I know that both are working hard together to find suitable interchange locations for each project that meet their respective operating and technical requirements. In addition, my Department has established a number of mechanisms to ensure that the required level of collaboration is taking place between all of the agencies with responsibility for implementing the projects in Transport 21. For example, my Department has actively encouraged Iarnród Éireann and the RPA to agree a location that provides for high quality and convenient interchange between Metro North and the Maynooth line.

I expect to bring proposals to Government shortly for the establishment of a Dublin Transport Authority, one of whose major functions will be the delivery of Transport 21 for the Greater Dublin Area. The Authority will take all necessary steps to ensure that an integrated rail network is put in place.