Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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327. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport to provide all planned transport upgrades for the Blarney, Glanmire and Ballyvolane growth corridors to 2030, including timelines for each scheme. [63864/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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As 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 BusConnects Cork and the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme.

In October, the Government approved the Preliminary Business Case for BusConnects Cork which will allow the programme to move ahead and the Sustainable Transport Corridors within it to enter the planning process.

The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is being delivered on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the Programme consists of a signalling upgrade, construction of a through-platform at Kent Station, which opened in April, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. This phase has received EU Funding under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and is expected to be completed next year.

Phase 2 of the programme plans for the electrification of the Cork commuter rail network and the delivery of up to eight new stations in the following locations, including Blarney/Stoneview, as well as the upgrade of existing stations including Mallow.

The first public consultation on Phase 2 of the Programme concluded in July. Phase 2 will be progressed following the completion of Phase 1, subject to funding and relevant approvals.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.