Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

244. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the timetable for the delivery of the DART underground linking Heuston and Connolly stations is under review; the timetable for the delivery of new rail and light rail infrastructure for the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6414/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The DART Underground project remains a key element of integrated transport for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and implementation of the overall DART Expansion Programme is proposed in the National Transport Authority's (NTA) Transport Strategy for the GDA 2016-2035. 

The Capital Plan provides funding for the redesign of the DART Underground but until that work is complete, the business case is developed and reviewed and funding is confirmed, it will not be possible to provide a timeframe for delivery of the project.  The Capital Plan also provides funding for other elements of the overall DART Expansion Programme, including electrification of the Northern line to extend the DART to Balbriggan.

The NTA is currently preparing an Implementation Plan for the delivery of the GDA Strategy for the period 2017-2022.  Key to implementation is the capital funding that will be available for investment in public transport infrastructure over the period.  The Capital Plan allocates €3.6bn for public transport investment over the period 2016-2022.  A very significant portion of the capital funding for Public Transport on an annual basis is required for the maintenance of the existing heavy rail network to ensure it remains safe and fit for purpose.  Other heavy rail projects being progressed under the Capital Plan include:

- electrification of the Northern line to extend the DART to Balbriggan;

- the City Centre Re-signalling Programme; and

- the construction of a new Central Traffic Control Centre which will improve rail movements on the network.  

With regard to the light rail network, the Capital Plan will allow for the completion of the Luas Cross City project which is on schedule for the commencement of operations by the end of 2017.  Funding is also allocated for the progression of new Metro North linking the city centre to Dublin Airport and Swords with construction due to commence in 2021 with a view to delivery of the link by 2026/2027.

The Government is embarking on a Mid-Term Review of the Capital Plan, which will take stock of progress and provide the Government with an opportunity to consider the scope for increased levels of investment, including in the transport sector, taking economic growth and fiscal progress into account.