Written answers

Wednesday, 17 January 2024

Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

Rail Network

Photo of Duncan SmithDuncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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244. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the outcome of the 2019 order for 41 rail carriages which was to deliver a 10% increase in capacity in the morning and evenings for commuters on the Northern Line; how this has been achieved to date; the status of the delivery of 95 Dart + carriages; how the delivery of the carriages will increase capacity on the Northern Line; the projected time scale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1235/24]

Photo of Eamon RyanEamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, in consultation with Iarnród éireann, the purchase of 41 additional intercity railcars and the DART+ Programme.

The delivery of 41 additional intercity railcars was completed last March. These new railcars will allow for enhanced services across the rail network when introduced into service this year. As part of ongoing work by the NTA and Iarnród éireann on a network-wide basis, consideration will be given to providing new and additional carriages where demand, available carriages and suitable infrastructure support such provision.

Approval by Government in December 2021 permitted the purchase of 95 DART carriages from Alstom, for entry into service starting later next year. In November 2022, the Government approved a second purchase of fleet under the framework agreement with Alstom, which will see an additional 90 new battery-electric multiple units enter service from around 2026.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter 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 days.

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