Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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269. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the DART extension project to serve Donabate, Rush and Lusk, Skerries and Balbriggan; the projected timeframe for each stage of the project up to completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20657/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy is aware, the National Transport Authority's (NTA) 'Transport Strategy for the GDA 2016-2035' proposes implementation of the overall DART Expansion Programme.  As outlined in the recently published National Development Plan (NDP), the DART Expansion Programme is a series of projects that will create a full metropolitan area DART network for Dublin with all of the lines linked and connected.  

As well as the provision of fast, high-frequency electrified services - to Drogheda on the Northern Line; to Maynooth and M3 Parkway on the Maynooth/Sligo Line; and to Celbridge/Hazelhatch on the Kildare Line; while continuing to provide DART services on the South-Eastern Line as far south as Greystones - the NDP' investment in the DART Expansion Programme will also provide for the delivery of other priority elements including a move to a 10 minute peak-time service and the introduction of additional train fleet including the expansion of the fleet with new diesel electric trains.  The electrification of the Northern Line as far as Balbriggan, incorporating the stations the Deputy has mentioned, is expected to be delivered in 2022.

Noting the NTA's responsibility for implementation of public transport in the Greater Dublin Area, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.