Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 253: To ask the Minister for Transport the position regarding a project (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [34857/07]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The Railway Procurement Agency is responsible for the delivery of Metro North. 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, in particular, with residents and interested parties in the Drumcondra area. The views expressed during this consultation played a significant role in the selection of a revised alignment through Drumcondra in October this year.

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Metro North project will set out the likely significant environmental effects associated with the project, both in construction and in operation, and the appropriate actions to ensure that these effects are mitigated. At present the relevant environmental assessments are being completed. These include an assessment of the impacts on human beings, including a health assessment, as a result of the construction and operation of Metro North.

Following completion of the Environmental Impact Statement, the Agency hopes to be in a position to lodge an application for a railway order to An Bord Pleanála early next year. The railway order, where granted by An Bord Pleanála, will determine the final alignment for Metro North. Subject to the grant of an enforceable railway order the RPA plans to commence construction of the project in 2009. I have been advised that the RPA is in on-going discussions with the Board of Management of Corpus Christi School to ensure all of their concerns are addressed.