Ciarán Cuffe (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party)
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Question 248: To ask the Minister for Transport the completion date for the feasibility studies on light rail transit systems in respect of Limerick, Cork, Waterford and Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28282/08]

Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 274: To ask the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed development of light rail systems for Cork, Galway and Limerick; if he has received feasibility studies for the three projects; if so, if he will publish the studies; the estimated cost and completion date of each project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29034/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 248 and 274 together.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to carry out feasibility studies into Luas-style Light Rail Transport (LRT) systems in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford within two years. I have since asked that these studies should simultaneously include consideration of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

The feasibility of LRT and/or BRT in Cork is being considered in the context of the update of the Cork Area Strategic Plan (CASP), which I understand is due to be completed in Autumn of 2008.

In the case of Limerick, the local authorities are currently conducting a tender process for consultants to carry out a Planning, Land Use and Transportation Study for the region, and the terms of reference will include consideration of LRT/BRT in Limerick.

I understand that Limerick City Council expect to appoint consultants by late August 2008 and the Study is expected to be completed by late 2009. However, it is expected that interim findings, including regarding the feasibility of LRT/BRT in Limerick, will be available by mid 2009.

Discussions are under way between my Department and the local authorities in Galway and Waterford on finalising the terms of reference for a feasibility study on LRT/BRT in these cities, in order to ensure that the local authorities complete these studies within the required timeframe.

I expect all of these studies to be published when completed. The costing of any individual LRT/BRT projects cannot be finalized until tenders have been received and decided upon by the relevant local authorities.