Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 289: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans to extend the Luas line to Rathcoole; the discussions which have taken place; the timeframe and process intended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22676/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Transport 21 provides for an extension of the Tallaght Luas line to City West. The project is contingent on agreement being reached between the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) and private developers on the sharing of the costs involved in the project. The RPA is progressing the project and South Dublin County Council have confirmed their strong support for the project.

Earlier this year I launched a public consultation process on the proposed line. My Department has recently approved an extension of the project towards the Rathcoole area, terminating at Garter Lane, subject to additional private sector involvement in funding the scheme.

I understand that the RPA hopes to submit a railway order application in respect of Line A1 later this year, subject to agreement on private sector financial support. Subject to the relevant statutory procedures construction should be completed in 2009.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 290: To ask the Minister for Transport the plans for the extension of the LUAS line in the Dublin areas; the discussions which have taken place; the timeframe and process intended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22677/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Transport 21 provides for the extension of existing Luas lines and the establishment of new Luas lines in the Dublin Area within the next 10 years.

A public inquiry into the proposed Luas line from Sandyford to Cherrywood was held in March and a report on the findings of the inquiry was submitted to me in April. I am now considering this report and all relevant documentation and I will make a decision in relation to the granting of a Railway Order in due course.

A public inquiry into the proposed Luas line from Connolly Station to The Point Depot has recently been completed and I am awaiting the Inspector's report on the findings of the Inquiry.

Public consultation relating to the proposed Luas City Centre Link is underway and I am informed that the RPA intends to submit a railway order application to my Department in the early part of 2007. It is proposed that this line be extended to Liffey Junction within the timeframe of Transport 21.

Transport 21 also provides for a spur off the existing Luas Red Line, which will serve Citywest. Public consultation on this proposed spur has commenced and the RPA hopes to submit a railway order application this year subject to agreement on private sector financial support.

I understand that preliminary work has been carried out in relation to the proposed extension of the Green Luas Line to the Bray area and the RPA expects to commence public consultation in due course.

Preliminary work has also been carried out on a proposed line serving Lucan.