Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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512. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the €2.4 billion Metro North project in County Dublin, including if this project will go ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18055/16]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​The Programme for Government includes a commitment to proceed with the New Metro North project and funding is provided in the Capital Plan "Building on Recovery Infrastructure & Capital Investment 2016-2021" to facilitate construction of the link commencing in 2021 with a view to delivery by 2026/2027. The funding constraints that existed when the Capital Plan was being developed, and which continue to exist, mean that we are not in a position to deliver all that is required immediately. The first priority has to be ensuring that we maintain our existing transport infrastructure at what is termed "steady state" levels so that it remains safe and fit for purpose after a significant period of under-investment during the fiscal and economic crisis. The funding that is being provided in the Capital Plan for public transport investment will see us reach "steady state" ​funding levels by 2020.  In addition, funding is provided to commence critical transport projects such as New Metro North to meet growing demand.

​The National Transport Authority (NTA) and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have commenced preparatory work on planning and design of New Metro North and a dedicated project Steering Group has been established.

In the event that additional funding becomes available in the next few years, this preparatory work that is now underway will position us to progress the project in line with available funding.