Robert O'Donoghue (Dublin Fingal West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

221. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will confirm the commitment to delivering the MetroLink project, particularly in relation to its role in improving public transport access for north County Dublin; if he will provide an updated timeline for its approval and construction; if he will outline any measures being taken to prevent further delays and cost escalations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13394/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy may be aware, MetroLink will be a fully segregated and mostly underground new railway line between Swords and Dublin City Centre via Dublin Airport. It is a key project under the National Development Plan 2021-30.

A significant milestone in the progression of the MetroLink project was cleared in July 2022, when Cabinet approved the project under Approval Gate 1 of the Public Spending Code. This approval enabled the project to move to the planning application stage, and in September 2022 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) submitted a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála.

An Bord Pleanála held an Oral Hearing in relation to MetroLink in February/March 2024. Following the Oral Hearing, An Bord Pleanála held an additional round of public consultation from August to October 2024. A planning decision on the project from An Bord Pleanála is awaited.

Subject to securing planning approval, and no successful legal challenges, TII will finalise a Detailed Project Brief and Procurement Strategy for consideration at Approval Gate 2, in line with the infrastructure Guidelines.

Dependent on the outcome of the planning process, construction of MetroLink is earmarked to commence in the coming years with a view to operation by the mid-2030s.

The final budget for MetroLink will not be set until after the planning process and completion of tendering and procurement, with the Government having the final decision about whether to proceed to construction. The National Transport Authority (NTA) as the Approving Authority and the Department will continue to monitor costs as the project progresses.

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