Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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23. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a decision will be taken with regard to the best route and infrastructure option in connecting Dublin city with Dublin Airport; his views on a particular option of the six options being examined by the National Transport Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16505/15]

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 then 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. In the meantime it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the proposed shortlisted projects. 

Work is ongoing on the Government's capital plan to 2020. When my review is finalised I will submit my proposals relating to  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.