Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

331. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the feasibility study for Metro SouthWest has been initiated, and if not, whether terms of reference have been agreed; if the planning application for the project has been finalised; the projected cost of the project; and if a potential costing has been made for an extension from Charlemont to St Stephens Green. [17592/25]

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

As the Deputy may be aware, 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, including the development of the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area.

The Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042 is the statutory transport strategy for the region and sets out a range of ambitious proposals for delivery over the period to 2042. In relation to metro, and as outlined the Strategy, the analysis conducted concluded that a metro line from Swords to Dublin City Centre via Dublin Airport would be the key area of focus for metro delivery out to 2042. This route includes a station at Stephen's Green and terminates at Charlemont in the City Centre.

There were a number of studies and reports that informed the development of Dublin's integrated transport system, as set out in the Strategy, including feasibility studies for a metro to Knocklyon and a metro to Sandyford. While the Strategy states that the south west Dublin area is best served by bus rapid transit (such as Bus Connects) and light rail (such as Luas) for the foreseeable future. The Strategy notes that the MetroLink terminus at Charlemont can facilitate any potential future metro extensions to serve the south west, south or south east of the Dublin area should sufficient demand develop.

The Programme for Government commits to commissioning an independent feasibility study into continuing MetroLink from the city to South West Dublin.

The NTA reviews and updates the Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area every six years, and the process to update the current strategy is likely to commence next year. Therefore, the consideration of a southwestern extension of MetroLink may be examined as part of or related to this update.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the manner, 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.