John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Transport when the route for Metro West will be decided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41776/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Transport 21, which was launched late last year, includes Metro West, linking Tallaght, Clondalkin, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown to Metro North. The RPA, in consultation with South Dublin and Fingal County Councils and other key stakeholders, have identified two appropriate route corridors for Metro West between its terminus at Tallaght and its connection with Metro North.

I launched the public consultation process for Metro West on 22nd November last. 50,000 newsletters will be circulated to households and other interested parties along the proposed routes as part of this consultation. The newsletter contains a map showing the two broad corridor options and an assessment of each of these options.

The RPA will consult widely with people living and working along the proposed routes, public representatives, agencies and local authorities. This process gives people an opportunity to express their views and have these views taken into account in the implementation of the project.

The route finally selected may be a variant or combination of the route options or other options identified during consultation. It is expected that a preferred alignment will be identified in 2007. Once an emerging preferred route option has been identified, RPA will prepare an Outline Business Case seeking approval to proceed with a Railway Order application.