Grace Boland (Dublin Fingal West, Fine Gael)
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133. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on the delivery of the Dart Plus project for the northern commuter line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5251/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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 DART+ programme.

The Preliminary Business Case for the whole DART+ programme was approved by Cabinet at Decision Gate 1 of the Public Spending Code in December 2021. The Decision also permitted the purchase of additional DART fleet. The first order for the purchase of 95 additional DART carriages (compromised of mainly battery-electric and some electric carriages) have started to arrive for testing prior to entry into service in 2026 on the northern line to Drogheda.

A Railway Order for DART+ Coastal North was lodged in July 2024 which commenced the formal planning process. The Statutory Consultation period closed in October 2024. The project is currently awaiting a decision from An Bord Pleanála.

The project will significantly increase the peak hourly capacity and frequency on the Northern route between Dublin city and Malahide, Howth and Drogheda, with the section between Malahide and Drogheda (as part of the service between Dublin city and Drogheda) increasing in capacity from circa 4,800 to 8,800 passengers at peak hour/direction upon project completion.

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.