Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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583. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to outline his views on the plans of Iarnród Éireann to extend the DART to Rush, Skerries and Balbriggan; and the steps he has taken relating to same. [42287/18]

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

The NDP investment in the DART Expansion Programme will provide fast, high-frequency electrified services - to Drogheda on the Northern Line (incorporating the stations the Deputy has mentioned); 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 investment will provide for significant improvements in services for commuters along these lines and also provide for the delivery of other priority elements such as the introduction of additional train fleet including the expansion of the fleet with new diesel electric trains. This fleet type will allow the introduction of DART services north of Malahide in advance of completion of the full electrification of the line.

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.