Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Independent)
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177. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the decision-making process in respect of Government investment in major public transport projects for the north side of Dublin, and the specific role of the Minister and the Cabinet. [15978/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the implementation and development of infrastructure projects in the GDA. The Fingal/North Dublin Transport Study currently underway is an independent study commissioned by the NTA to identify the optimum long term public transport solution to meet the needs of the Swords/Airport/City Centre corridor. Phase one of the Study was published on 8th December and six short-listed project options were identified for further detailed evaluation. A public consultation process was also launched at that time.

Under the current stage of the Study process the six shortlisted projects are being subjected to further analysis assessing cost, engineering, environmental and usage forecasts. This will form the basis for the selection of the recommended preferred option by the NTA.

The Study, which I understand is close to finalisation, will be assessed in tandem with analyses being undertaken on other projects  and the work being carried out in the preparation of a draft Transport Strategy for the GDA.

I expect to finalise this review by mid-2015 in conjunction with the development of the transport strategy for the region which  under  Section 12 (9)  of the Dublin Transport Act 2008 must be submitted for my approval.

Work is ongoing on the Government's capital plan to 2020. When my review is finalised I will submit my proposals relating to large  public transport projects for inclusion in the next capital plan to the  Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform who is responsible for drafting the plan.

Decisions on what projects will be included in the next capital plan will be a matter for Government having regard to overall priorities for  available exchequer funding and, where appropriate, the availability and suitability of funding from other sources.