Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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60. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport with consideration to the Port Access Northern Cross Route Phase 1 in Drogheda advancing to construction at present, if any discussions have taken place between his Department and Irish Rail to ascertain the viability of opening a Drogheda north railway station to prepare for the introduction of DART services to Drogheda in the coming years given the phenomenal population growth in the town and the need to reduce the significant number of commuter vehicles, and the carbon footprint travelling from the north of Drogheda to the south Drogheda railway station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7561/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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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 in the Greater Dublin Area, which includes the DART+ Programme, the various projects therein and the scope of same.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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61. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to seek an update on when it is expected that DART services will commence in Drogheda; if the hybrid diesel units will be in place and in operation in advance of electrification of the line; the frequency of expected DART services and any other relevant details; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7562/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the Government approved a ten-year fleet framework agreement between Iarnród Éireann and Alstom in December 2021. This agreement allows for the purchase of up to 750 electric and battery-electric train carriages over the contract period.

Alongside approval of the framework in December 2021, the Government also gave specific approval for the first purchase under the framework of 30 electric carriages and 65 battery-electric carriages. The battery-electric carriages are expected to enter into service in 2025 to expand DART services on the Northern Line to Drogheda. This fleet will deliver more capacity and increased service frequency for commuters in advance of electrification of the line.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the DART+ programme.

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