Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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200.To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding required to fully implement the remaining phases of the BusConnects programme within Dublin. [31630/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects Dublin is a transformative programme of investment in the existing bus system providing better bus services to more people. The Programme brings together all areas of bus investment identified in the Greater Dublin Area Transport Strategy including enhanced and new bus infrastructure, service enhancements such as higher frequencies and new routes serving a wider catchment.

Following approval of the Liffey Valley, Clongriffin, Ballymun/Finglas and Belfield/Blackrock Core Bus Corridors by An Bord Pleanála, the National Transport Authority (NTA) have also recently received decisions on the Swords and Blanchardstown Corridors. However, legal proceedings are ongoing for the Clongriffin and Belfield/Blackrock schemes.

The total estimated cost at the time of Government approval in 2022 of implementing BusConnects Dublin ranged from approximately €3.4 billion to €4.2 billion including VAT. The final budget for BusConnects Dublin will not be set until after the planning process and completion of tendering and procurement for various aspects of the programme.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The NTA has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects Dublin.

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