Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 88: To ask the Minister for Transport the timescale for the delivery of Metro North; the difficulties that have been encountered by the Railway Procurement Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25863/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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In February 2006 public consultation on the preferred alignment for Metro North got underway and in October of that year my predecessor announced the preferred alignment selected by the RPA. Since then the RPA has undertaken significant detailed design work and engaged extensively with local communities and businesses.

Arising from these consultations local alterations have been made to the preferred alignment. These changes include the decision to go underground through Ballymun and to maximise the green space under which the Metro will run in the Drumcondra area. Both of these changes arise from concerns from local interests raised in public consultations and the RPA has at all times sought to address these legitimate concerns whilst ensuring the overall integrity of the project.

Clearly, these public consultations and consequential design changes already referred to have impacted on the timescale for the project. However, I am satisfied that the approach taken by the RPA in seeking to address the concerns of local communities is the correct one.

The Agency hopes to be in a position to lodge an application for a railway order to An Bord Pleanála early next year. Subject to the grant of an enforceable railway order the RPA plans to commence construction of the project in 2009 with a target of commencing Metro operations in 2013.