Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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681. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the timeline for electrification of the rail line to Maynooth and beyond thereby contributing to reduction of emissions and increase efficiency of the transport network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12981/20]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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682. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which preparations are in hand to improve the frequency and capacity of the commuter rail service serving north County Kildare on both lines; when the extra carriages required are likely to be delivered; the expected increase capacity arising in addition to emission reductions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12982/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 681 and 682 together.

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.  The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area including implementation of the DART Expansion Programme which includes matters such as electrification and capacity enhancements as raised by the Deputy.  

Separately the Deputy will also be aware of Government's approval last year of the proposed purchase of 41 additional carriages to the ICR fleet, which will increase capacity across both the Maynooth and Kildare Lines.  Under the Public Spending Code, the NTA is the Approving Authority in relation to this project and Iarnród Éireann is the Sponsoring Agency.

Noting the NTA's responsibilities in the matters raised, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed direct reply.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.