Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As Minister for Transport, 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, including the provision of light rail.

The issue of a Luas extension to Bray was considered as part of the NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, published in 2016, with some funding toward appraisal, planning and design referenced in the National Development Plan. The issue will be reconsidered as part of the ongoing review of the Transport Strategy which is underway and on which I understand there will be a further public consultation later in the year.

Given their responsibility in relation to this matter, I have forwarded your query to the NTA for a direct reply. Please notify my office if you have not received a response within 10 working days.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 164, 165 and 167 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding relating to public transport. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operation of public transport.

The issues raised are a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann and I have therefore referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply.

Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 168 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of 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 any feasibility studies conducted.

The Deputy may be aware that the statutory Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, including Wicklow is currently under review.  The output of this review will provide for a revised twenty year framework for transport infrastructure and services across the region, including Wicklow. 

In relation to the potential use of battery trains on the line south of Greystones, the DART+ programme extends as far as Greystones; however, I understand the optimal operational usage of fleet including battery electric fleet across the Greater Dublin Area network is being considered by the NTA and Iarnród Éireann.  

Finally I would also note that there are plans to develop, and later implement, a programme of works on the rail line in Wicklow to address issues caused by coastal erosion.  

In view of the NTA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to it for direct reply.  Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.