Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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179. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the latest estimate for the cost of the DART interconnector. [16930/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy is aware, as part of Project Ireland 2040 the funding priority in relation to the DART Expansion Programme is to ensure delivery of the non-tunnel elements of the programme over the next ten years.

The initial sequencing of investment will therefore focus on -

- electrification of the Northern Line to Drogheda

- electrification of Kildare Line to Hazelhatch

- electrification of Maynooth Line to Maynooth and M3 Parkway 

- better utilisation of the Phoenix Park Tunnel

- purchase of additional bi-mode rail fleet

- other measures such as re-signalling and junction/station changes.

The DART Expansion Programme's remaining element is the DART Underground Tunnel or DART Interconnector as referred to by the Deputy.  Project Ireland 2040 commits toward establishing the route of the DART Underground Tunnel and ensuring its protection to allow for its future delivery.  The cost estimate for the delivery of such a project would only be developed following the completion of  any design work on the project. 

Noting the National Transport Authority's statutory responsibilities in relation to the delivery of public transport infrastructure including the DART Expansion Programme, I have directed the question to the NTA for direct reply.  Please contact my Office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.